can apply for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can apply for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the process of submitting a request or application for something, such as a job, scholarship, or permit. Example: "Eligible candidates can apply for the scholarship until the end of the month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Americans can apply for exemptions.

The New York Times

They can apply for credit online.

The New Yorker

Meanwhile, they can apply for blue cards.

The Economist

Only the debtor can apply for sauvegarde.

The Economist

You can apply for the job here.

The New Yorker

It can apply for judicial review.

The Times

Fellowships that astronomy students can apply for.

Cornell University

Eligible employees can apply for grants.

Harvard University

Artists can apply for short or long residencies.

The New York Times - Arts

Students can apply for up to five courses.

The Guardian

Academies can apply for the Academies Capital Maintenance Fund.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "can apply for" with specific details about eligibility criteria to provide comprehensive information. For example, "Students who meet the GPA requirements can apply for the scholarship."

Common error

Ensure that the conditions for eligibility are clearly stated when using "can apply for". Vague statements like "Anyone can apply for the grant" can lead to unnecessary applications and confusion. Specify who is eligible to apply to avoid wasting time.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can apply for" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating possibility, permission, or eligibility to submit an application or request. As Ludwig AI explains, it's a grammatically correct way to express that someone has the option to apply.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can apply for" is a versatile and widely used expression that indicates the possibility, eligibility, or permission to submit an application or request. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, ranging from news articles and academic publications to formal business communications. Common synonyms include "is eligible to apply for", "may submit an application for", and "is entitled to apply for". When using this phrase, ensure that the eligibility criteria are clearly defined to avoid confusion. With a high expert rating and frequent occurrence in authoritative sources, "can apply for" is a reliable choice for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can make an application for

Focuses on the act of making the application.

is eligible to apply for

Replaces "can" with a more formal expression of eligibility.

is entitled to apply for

Indicates a right or entitlement to apply.

are qualified to apply for

Highlights that requirements have been met to apply.

may submit an application for

More formal and emphasizes the act of submitting an application.

is permitted to apply for

Highlights permission or authorization to apply.

has the opportunity to apply for

Emphasizes the chance or occasion to apply.

is able to put in for

Informal; suggests the action of applying.

can request

Shortened to its basic request.

can seek

Refers to the act of actively pursuing something through application.

FAQs

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

Use "can apply for" to indicate eligibility or the possibility of submitting an application. For example, "Graduates "can apply for" the internship program".

What are some alternatives to "can apply for"?

You can use phrases like "is eligible to apply for", "may submit an application for", or "is entitled to apply for" depending on the specific context. Always choose the phrase that best fits the tone and meaning you intend to convey.

Which is more formal, "can apply for" or "may submit an application for"?

"May submit an application for" is generally more formal than "can apply for". The former emphasizes the act of submitting, while the latter simply indicates the possibility.

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

"Can apply for" indicates the possibility of applying, while "are qualified to apply for" emphasizes that certain requirements or qualifications have been met, making them eligible to apply.