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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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an application

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an application" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a formal request or a software program designed to perform specific tasks. Example: "I submitted an application for the scholarship last week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

An API is an " Application Programming Interface".

News & Media

Forbes

"Write an application.

News & Media

The New Yorker

He submitted an application.

News & Media

The New York Times

I love an application form.

News & Media

Independent

There's an application process.

"It was an application for an application," she said.

News & Media

The New York Times

But an application refund isn't enough.

News & Media

The New York Times

"I'm going to make an application.

News & Media

The New Yorker

She filled out an application, with fingerprints.

News & Media

The New Yorker

"It's an application of product".

News & Media

The New York Times

Just an application form.

News & Media

BBC
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to a request or submission, clarify the type of "an application" (e.g., job application, loan application) for better context.

Common error

Ensure the context clearly indicates whether "an application" refers to a formal request, a software program, or another type of application (like in the phrase "an application of product"). Vague references can confuse the reader.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

73%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an application" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a formal request or a software program. Ludwig examples show it can also refer to a procedure or the act of applying something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

30%

News & Media

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an application" is a versatile phrase widely used across various contexts, from formal requests to software programs. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and prevalent in news, wiki, and scientific domains. To avoid ambiguity, ensure the context clarifies the type of application you're referring to. Consider alternatives like "a request" or "a program" for more specific meanings. By following these guidelines, you can confidently and accurately use "an application" in your writing.

FAQs

How to use "an application" in a sentence?

You can use "an application" to refer to a formal request, such as "I submitted "an application" for the job". Alternatively, it can refer to a software program, like "I downloaded "an application" on my phone".

What can I say instead of "an application"?

You can use alternatives like "a request", "a submission", or, if referring to software, "a program".

Which is correct, "an application" or "a application"?

"An application" is correct. The indefinite article 'an' is used before words that start with a vowel sound.

What's the difference between "an application" and "the application"?

"An application" refers to a general or unspecified application, while "the application" refers to a specific application that has already been mentioned or is understood in context.

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Source & Trust

73%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: