apply for an exemption

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apply for an exemption" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the process of formally requesting to be excused from a requirement or rule. Example: "Students may apply for an exemption from the final exam if they meet certain criteria."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

The London Stadium might also need to apply for an exemption from ground-size requirements.

The Guardian - Sport

He said homeowners who did not believe they owed the surcharge could apply for an exemption.

The New York Times

Small rating agencies can apply for an exemption from this rule.

The New York Times

As a matter of interest, Bayer did not apply for an exemption for their own neonicotinoid product.

The Guardian

But the tennis federation said Odesnik, who has never tested positive for the drug, did not apply for an exemption.

The New York Times - Sports

The hotel had remained a refuge for smokers by asserting that it was preparing to apply for an exemption to the smoking ban.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

If the worst comes to the worst you can actually apply for an exemptions or your child to not attend school for a period of time.

WikiHow

Failing that, it had considered applying for an exemption as a combination restaurant and bar, with proper ventilation and such.

The New York Times

Mr. Erdal said his family had learned he was gay last month after he applied for an exemption from military service on the grounds of his sexuality.

The New York Times

But John Hancock has applied for an exemption to the law and believes that if the rules change, future funds of this type will typically carry a guarantee.

The New York Times

Gay men applying for an exemption from compulsory military service on the grounds of homosexuality must provide proof -- either in the form of a medical exam or photographs.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing formally, ensure you clearly state the specific rule or regulation from which you are seeking an exemption. Provide detailed justification for your request to increase the likelihood of approval.

Common error

A common mistake is failing to provide all required supporting documents when applying for an exemption. Always double-check the application requirements and include every necessary piece of information to avoid delays or rejection.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apply for an exemption" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of formally requesting to be excused from a rule or requirement. Ludwig AI shows this phrase is commonly used in various contexts to describe the act of seeking official permission for non-compliance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Academia

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "apply for an exemption" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe the action of formally requesting to be excused from a rule or requirement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase appears commonly across diverse sources, including news outlets, scientific publications, and business documents. While several alternatives exist, such as "request an exemption" or "seek a waiver", "apply for an exemption" remains a direct and widely understood way to convey this meaning. When using this phrase, clarity and thoroughness in your application are essential to increase the likelihood of success.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request an exemption

Replaces "apply" with "request", emphasizing the act of asking for the exemption.

seek an exemption

Uses "seek" instead of "apply", suggesting a more proactive approach to obtaining the exemption.

file for an exemption

Replaces "apply" with "file", indicating a more formal submission process.

submit an exemption request

Rephrases the phrase to emphasize the submission of a formal request.

seek a waiver

Uses "waiver" as a synonym for "exemption", changing the noun but maintaining similar meaning.

request a dispensation

Uses "dispensation" which implies being freed from an obligation, but usually has religious overtones.

pursue an exception

Emphasizes actively trying to gain an exception to a rule or regulation.

make an application for an exemption

Adds formality by expanding "apply" to "make an application".

ask for an exception

Uses simple vocabulary to express the core meaning of requesting special treatment.

register for an exemption

Suggests a formal process of registering to be exempt, implying it may be more administrative than discretionary.

FAQs

What does "apply for an exemption" mean?

To "apply for an exemption" means to formally request to be excused from a certain rule, requirement, or obligation. This usually involves submitting an application with supporting documentation to the relevant authority.

When should I "apply for an exemption"?

You should "apply for an exemption" when you believe you meet the criteria for being excused from a rule or requirement, and you are prepared to provide evidence supporting your claim. Make sure you do so before any relevant deadlines.

What can I say instead of "apply for an exemption"?

You can use alternatives like "request an exemption", "seek an exemption", or "file for an exemption". Each has a slightly different nuance but conveys the same general meaning.

What's the difference between "apply for an exemption" and "request a waiver"?

While both phrases are similar, "apply for an exemption" is more general and can refer to any kind of rule or requirement. "Request a waiver" often implies seeking to have a specific requirement temporarily set aside, usually due to special circumstances.