application has been rejected

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "application has been rejected" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when informing someone that their application for a job, loan, or any other process has not been accepted. Example: "We regret to inform you that your application has been rejected due to insufficient qualifications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Snowden has applied for asylum in Germany, but his application has been rejected.

The Guardian

JUST because your mortgage application has been rejected doesn't mean you won't eventually get funding.

The New York Times

His application has been rejected three times at a cost of $160 each time.

The Telegraph

But when Mr. Lavi calls, a representative coolly discloses that the application has been rejected because one document, a proof-of-insurance form, is missing.

The New York Times

"Cases where the application has been rejected will be examined to try and find a solution," he added, refusing to give his name, following ministry practice.

The New York Times

The agreement with Senegal, signed last week in Dakar, Senegal's capital, allows Switzerland to deport to Senegal any West African whose asylum application has been rejected and whose country of origin is not clear.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The lord chief justice, Lord Judge, said on Wednesday that Sutcliffe's application had been rejected.

The Guardian

At that time, Seagraves expressed concern that the KKK's application had been rejected.

The Guardian

His application had been rejected, and he was not sure why.

The New York Times

At the appointment they were told that Chen's application had been rejected.

The Guardian

On Jan . 16 when Dr. Werwath called to tell her the application had been rejected, she stood up in disbelief.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always double-check the spelling and grammar in your rejection message to maintain professionalism and avoid any misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid using overly vague or impersonal language when informing someone that their "application has been rejected". Provide specific reasons for the decision and offer constructive feedback to show that you've genuinely considered their application.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "application has been rejected" functions as a declarative statement, conveying the status of an application as unsuccessful. Ludwig indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "application has been rejected" is a straightforward way to communicate that an application has been unsuccessful. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and generally used in a neutral to formal register. While the phrase isn't as common as other similar phrases, it appears frequently in news and media contexts, often reporting on decisions related to asylum, visas, or other formal processes. To soften the blow, be sure to use clear and empathetic language when delivering this news. Alternatives such as "application was denied" or "request was turned down" offer slightly different shades of meaning while conveying the same core message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the application was denied

Focuses on the action of denying the application, rather than the state of being rejected.

the application met with refusal

More formal and emphasizes the act of refusing the application.

the request was turned down

Broader term; 'request' can encompass more than just formal applications.

the submission was unsuccessful

Highlights the lack of success of the submission, a more general term.

the candidacy was not accepted

Specifically refers to applications where someone is seeking candidacy.

approval was not granted

Emphasizes the lack of permission or authorization.

the proposition was declined

Suitable when the application is more of a proposal or suggestion.

the bid was unsuccessful

Applicable in competitive scenarios like auctions or project proposals.

the appeal was not upheld

Used when the application is an appeal against a previous decision.

the file was closed

Indicates that the application process has ended without a positive outcome.

FAQs

What does it mean when an application has been rejected?

It means the application did not meet the required criteria or was not successful for other reasons. A rejection indicates the process has concluded without a positive outcome.

What can I say instead of "application has been rejected"?

You can use alternatives like "application was denied", "request was turned down", or "submission was unsuccessful" depending on the context.

Why was my application rejected?

Reasons vary but typically involve not meeting specific requirements, such as qualifications, experience, or documentation. Review any feedback provided to understand the specific reason.

Is there a difference between "application has been rejected" and "application has been denied"?

The terms are largely interchangeable. "Application has been rejected" emphasizes the outcome, while "application has been denied" focuses more on the action of denying. The practical difference is minimal.