application

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "application" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a formal request for something, such as a job or a loan. For example, "I filled out an application for a loan at the bank."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A responsible government would surely now redesign the application forms for opening a free school so that applicants' personal information isn't strewn all the way through it, and see to it that materials are redacted and released quickly and cheaply.

The Guardian

An Oxford University spokesperson said: "The university is robustly defending this application on all grounds and Ms Ramey's application has already been refused permission on the papers.

The Guardian

On receipt of your application, you will receive an electronic confirmation.

The Guardian

Data protection authorities seem content to rely on search engines' application of the ruling's balancing test, citing low appeal rates as evidence that the balance is being appropriately struck.

The Guardian - Tech

All candidates will be notified as to the result of their application no later than 10 days post submission.

The Guardian

In opposition O'Farrell said the Liberal/Nationals coalition would not approve the mine, but the application has been progressing with the planning assessment commission yet to make a decision on it.

The Guardian

The original roots of the "corporate identity" business lay in design-led American companies which, from the 30s to the 50s, rationalised the look of great corporations through the application of massive design programmes.

The Guardian

Icac concluded in its report that the Obeids had arranged for another mining company vying for the licence to withdraw its application, which it suggested was "arguably illegal" under competition law.

The Guardian

The Queensland government will submit a new application to the federal environment minister Greg Hunt for the dredging proposal, centred on the "T2" site, previously abandoned by BHP.

The Guardian

In September 2012, as part of my PhD studies, I made a routine request under the Freedom of Information Act asking the Department for Education to release the application forms submitted by groups who had applied to open free schools, and the letters sent to inform them about the government's decision to either grant or deny their application.

The Guardian

Anti-virus company Sophos is backing the move, with its global head of security research, James Lyne, saying that many home and small business routers still have "basic web application security floors which allow remote control or information exposure".

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal writing, ensure the type of "application" is clear – whether it's a job application, a software application, or something else. Adding context improves clarity.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by clearly specifying the type of "application" you're referring to. For example, instead of saying "The application failed", specify "The software application crashed" or "The job application was rejected".

Linguistic Context

The word "application" primarily functions as a noun, denoting the act of applying something, a formal request, or a software program. Ludwig's examples show its varied use in contexts ranging from job applications to software applications. It may also refer to practical use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "application" is a versatile noun that commonly refers to a formal request, a software program, or the act of applying something. As Ludwig highlights, its usage spans across various contexts, including news, business, and technology. The phrase is grammatically correct and very common in modern English. Understanding the specific context is key to interpreting the intended meaning, whether it's a job application, a software application, or the application of a principle. The diverse applications of "application" underscore its importance in both technical and everyday communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request

A more general term for asking for something, often implying a less formal process.

submission

Emphasizes the act of formally presenting something for consideration.

claim

Suggests a right or entitlement being asserted.

petition

A formal written request, typically signed by many people.

appeal

A request to a higher authority for a reversal of a decision.

employment form

Specifically refers to the document used to apply for a job.

software program

Refers to a computer application. It's specifically talking about an application software.

practical use

Emphasizes the functional implementation of something.

coating layer

Refers to the application of a substance onto a surface.

covering layer

Refers to a layer put on a surface. Similar to coating, it often refers to covering something in an "application" sense.

FAQs

How can I use "application" in a sentence?

You can use "application" to refer to a formal request, like "I submitted my "application" for the job". It can also refer to a software program: "This "application" helps me organize my tasks".

What are some synonyms for "application"?

Depending on the context, synonyms for "application" include "request", "submission", or "software".

Is it correct to use "application" to refer to a computer program?

Yes, "application" is commonly used to refer to a computer program or software, especially one designed for a specific task. It's often shortened to "app" in informal contexts.

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

While often used interchangeably, "application" typically refers to a specific piece of software designed for end-users, whereas "program" is a more general term that can include system-level software or components. An "application" is usually something a user directly interacts with.