applies to join

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "applies to join" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to express a process or requirement for joining something, but it lacks clarity and context. Example: "To become a member, you must submit an application that applies to join the organization."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

At first, Lords of Chaos looks as if it is going to be a black comedy, and I did laugh when a black-metal musician applies to join Mayhem by sending a crucified rat through the post.

The Guardian - Film

The carrot of EU membership is an extraordinarily effective foreign-policy tool; one Brussels official jokes that: "Once a country applies to join the EU, it becomes our slave .But it cannot be applied to countries without any European connections, and there is nothing much else in the toolbox.

The Economist

Icelanders grew up thinking of whaling as normal, but whaling offends public opinion abroad and harms lucrative fish exports, so it is now stalled.Iceland will be bullied, in subtle and unpleasant ways, if it applies to join the EU from its present position of weakness.

The Economist

If a new member applies to join a bowls club, they should be asked if they're prepared to abide by the rules of the elected committee, and if they are, they should be told to sod off and never come back.

Independent

If he graduates from law school and applies to join the Law Society of Upper Canada, he will have to disclose his conviction.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Nobody like that applied to join.

The New York Times

It would also apply to join Nato.

The Guardian

Users can apply to join the beta.

The Guardian - Tech

Q: You would have to apply to join the EU.

The Guardian

Any agency may apply to join the group, she said.

The New York Times - Travel

** In 1944, she applied to join the United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Association.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

For clarity and precision, consider using more explicit alternatives like "submits an application to join" or "applies for membership" instead of the somewhat ambiguous phrase "applies to join".

Common error

Be aware that "applies to join" can sometimes be interpreted as something that is relevant to joining rather than the action of applying. Make sure the context clearly indicates the intended meaning, or rephrase for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "applies to join" functions as a verb phrase, typically indicating the action of submitting an application for membership or affiliation. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's not the most precise phrasing.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "applies to join" is understandable, it isn't the most grammatically sound option. Ludwig AI suggests it's often better to opt for more precise alternatives like "applies for membership" or "submits an application to join" to avoid any ambiguity. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media contexts, but clarity is key, especially in formal writing. For increased precision and impact, consider using the suggested alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

submits an application for membership

Formal rephrasing of applying, focusing on the submission of a formal request.

files for admission

Focuses on the act of officially submitting documents for entry.

seeks to become a member

Emphasizes the intention and active pursuit of membership.

requests to be admitted

A formal way of saying asks to be allowed entry or membership.

aims to gain membership

Highlights the goal or objective of becoming a member.

expresses interest in joining

Highlights the initial expression of interest rather than the formal application.

registers for membership

Focuses on the act of officially registering as a member.

is in the process of applying

Specifies that the application is underway but not yet completed.

undertakes the application process for joining

Emphasizes the complete process of applying, from start to finish.

enrolls in

Refers to formally registering or signing up for something, like a course or program.

FAQs

What's a clearer way to say "applies to join"?

For increased clarity, use phrases like "applies for membership", "submits an application to join", or "seeks to become a member".

Is "applies to join" grammatically correct?

While understandable, "applies to join" is not the most grammatically precise phrasing. It's better to use alternatives such as "applies for" or "submits an application to join" for formal writing.

What's the difference between "applies to join" and "applies for membership"?

"Applies to join" is less direct and can be slightly ambiguous. "Applies for membership" is more specific, clearly indicating that someone is seeking membership.

How can I use "applies to join" in a sentence?

While not recommended, you might use it in a sentence like, "If the candidate "applies to join" the club, they must meet certain criteria". However, rephrasing is generally advised for better clarity.