apply for permission

USAGE SUMMARY

"apply for permission" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used whenever you are asking for or seeking permission to do something. For example: "I need to apply for permission to host an event at the park."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

An institution has to apply for permission to expand.

The Economist

To waive an autopsy, Mr. Latif said, relatives were required to apply for permission.

The New York Times

He can also apply for permission to travel further afield and, on occasion, it is granted.

The Guardian

citizens must apply for permission from the Ministry of Defense, although no fee is involved.

The New York Times

The move means that French military planes will need to apply for permission for each flight.

The New York Times

"But the agency said we had to apply for permission, and that would take six weeks".

Independent

If commercially viable deposits are identified, they could apply for permission to carry out fracking.

Independent

Before the end of 2014 doctors would be able to apply for permission to offer the procedure on the NHS.

The Guardian

Like the possibility that British citizens may have to apply for permission – and pay – to visit the continent.

The Guardian

Organizations had to apply for permission to collect hides, and approved groups have been issued identification badges.

The New York Times

The Home Secretary has three weeks to apply for permission for the matter to go before the Court of Appeal.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing formally, specify who you are applying to (e.g., "apply for permission from the council").

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by clearly stating what you are seeking permission for. For example, instead of "apply for permission", say "apply for permission to build a fence".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apply for permission" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of formally requesting authorization or consent for a specific activity or endeavor. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

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 "apply for permission" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the act of formally requesting authorization. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts. It is most frequently found in News & Media, Science and Formal & Business settings. While alternatives such as "request authorization" or "seek approval" exist, the best choice depends on the specific nuance and level of formality required. When using this phrase, it is important to clearly state the subject for which permission is being sought to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request authorization

This alternative uses a more formal term "authorization" instead of "permission".

seek approval

This option uses "approval", which is similar to permission but often implies a more formal process.

obtain consent

"Consent" suggests agreement or allowance, often in legal or ethical contexts.

ask for clearance

"Clearance" implies removing obstacles or gaining approval to proceed.

put in a request

This is a more general way of saying you are formally asking for something.

file an application

This emphasizes the act of submitting a formal document to ask for permission.

make a petition

This alternative suggests a more formal or serious request.

seek leave

This is specifically related to asking for time off or absence.

get the go-ahead

This is an informal way to say you need permission to start something.

require sanction

"Sanction" suggests a formal approval, often from an authority.

FAQs

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

You can use "apply for permission" to indicate the act of formally requesting authorization for something. For instance, "You must "apply for permission" before constructing any new buildings".

What are some alternatives to "apply for permission"?

Alternatives include phrases like "request authorization", "seek approval", or "obtain consent", depending on the context and formality required.

Is it better to say "apply for permission" or "ask for permission"?

"Apply for permission" typically implies a more formal process, often involving paperwork or an official request, while "ask for permission" is more general and can be informal.

What's the difference between "apply for permission" and "apply for a permit"?

"Apply for permission" is a general request for authorization, whereas "apply for a permit" refers specifically to obtaining an official document that grants permission for a specific activity.