apply for

USAGE SUMMARY

"apply for" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are asking someone to submit or request something, such as a job or loan. For example, "I am going to apply for a loan to buy a new car."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

People apply for it.

The New York Times

Click apply for funds.

WikiHow

Apply for the R01.

Science Magazine

Apply for everything.

BBC

Apply for state licensure.

WikiHow

Apply for ethical approval.

WikiHow

Apply for store credit.

WikiHow

Apply for grant money.

WikiHow

Apply for the position.

WikiHow

Apply for this visa.

WikiHow

Apply for certification programs.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure the object you're applying for is clearly stated. For example, "apply for a job" or "apply for a grant".

Common error

Avoid using "apply to" when "apply for" is more appropriate. "Apply to" generally refers to being relevant or pertinent to something, whereas "apply for" means to make a formal request.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "apply for" is that of a phrasal verb. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in initiating a formal request or application for something, whether it be a job, a loan, or a permit.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

60%

News & Media

16%

Science

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "apply for" is a grammatically correct and very common phrasal verb used to express the action of making a formal request. As Ludwig AI confirms, its versatility makes it suitable for diverse contexts, from applying for jobs to requesting permits. Remember to clearly state the object of your application and avoid the common mistake of substituting it with "apply to" when seeking to initiate a formal request. By understanding these nuances, you can confidently and effectively use "apply for" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

submit an application for

More formal and emphasizes the action of submitting a formal request.

make an application for

Similar to "submit an application for" but can also imply initiating the application process.

request

A more concise and direct alternative, suitable for less formal situations.

seek

Implies actively searching for and then requesting something.

put in for

An informal phrase meaning to apply for something.

register for

Specifically used when applying for an event, course, or program.

nominate for

Suggests recommending someone for a role or award.

bid for

Typically used when applying for a contract or project in a competitive setting.

enquire about

To ask for details or information about eligibility before applying.

look into

To investigate possibilities or to verify conditions.

FAQs

How do I use "apply for" in a sentence?

Use "apply for" followed by the specific item or opportunity you are requesting. For example, "I will "apply for a scholarship"" or "Did you "apply for the job"?".

What's the difference between "apply for" and "apply to"?

"Apply for" means to make a formal request or application, while "apply to" means to be relevant or applicable to something. For example, you "apply for a loan", but a rule "applies to everyone".

What can I say instead of "apply for"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "submit an application for", "make an application for", or simply "request".

Is it correct to say "apply for to"?

No, "apply for to" is grammatically incorrect. The correct usage is simply "apply for" followed by the object of the application.