can apply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can apply" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is relevant or applicable in a certain context or situation. Example: "The rules outlined in the manual can apply to various scenarios in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Can apply directly.

The New York Times

Anyone can apply.

The New Yorker

This can apply to anything.

The New York Times - Arts

Any Swedish citizen can apply.

The New York Times

Americans can apply for exemptions.

The New York Times

Anyone can apply these properly.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

People can apply and make their case".

The New York Times

Employers can apply through her department.

The New York Times

They can apply for credit online.

The New Yorker

Meanwhile, they can apply for blue cards.

The Economist

We can apply some political pressure".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Prefer using "can apply" in the active voice to create direct and concise sentences. For example, "Students can apply for the scholarship" is clearer than "The scholarship can be applied for by students."

Common error

Avoid using "can apply" in excessively passive constructions. Overusing passive voice can make your writing sound convoluted and less engaging. Instead of saying "The form can be applied for online", opt for the more direct "You can apply for the form online".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can apply" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating the possibility or ability to submit an application or be relevant in a particular context. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its versatility in expressing eligibility, permission, or relevance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can apply" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that indicates the ability, possibility, or relevance of making an application or being applicable in a particular context. According to Ludwig, it is versatile and can be used across various contexts, from news and media to scientific discussions. Although "can apply" is largely suitable for a wide range of audiences, it's important to remember the subject to avoid ambiguity and overuse of passive voice. Alternatives such as ""is eligible to apply"" or ""may submit an application"" offer nuanced ways to express the same concept. Therefore, based on Ludwig AI insights, the phrase is generally appropriate and useful in many scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is eligible to apply

Focuses on eligibility as a prerequisite to applying.

may submit an application

Replaces "can" with "may" and specifies the action as "submit an application".

is entitled to apply

Highlights the entitlement or right to apply.

has the option to apply

Emphasizes the choice or option available to apply.

is permitted to apply

Indicates permission or authorization to apply.

is able to submit

Focuses on the ability to submit something, instead of application directly.

qualifies to apply

Highlights that the subject satisfies the necessary conditions to apply.

is authorized to submit

Replaces "apply" with submit and adds a sense of authority.

is in a position to apply

Emphasizes that the subject is in a suitable situation to apply.

is welcome to apply

Adds an element of encouragement or invitation.

FAQs

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

Use "can apply" to indicate eligibility or possibility. For example, "Any citizen "is eligible to apply" for this grant" or "The rule "may submit an application" to all cases".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "can apply"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like ""is eligible to apply"", ""may submit an application"", or "is entitled to apply".

Is there a difference between "can apply" and "may apply"?

"Can apply" suggests the ability or capacity to apply, while "may apply" implies permission or possibility. For instance, "Anyone "has the option to apply"" indicates they have the option, whereas "They "are permitted to apply"" means they are allowed.

Which is more appropriate, "can apply for" or "can apply to"?

Both are correct depending on the context. "Can apply for" is used for specific things like jobs or grants, while "can apply to" is used for broader concepts like rules or situations. For example, "You "are able to submit" for a job" versus "This concept "qualifies to apply" to many situations".