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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
dear applicant
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "dear applicant" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used as a formal salutation in letters or emails directed to someone applying for a position or opportunity. Example: "Dear applicant, thank you for your interest in the position. We appreciate your application and will review it shortly."
✓ Grammatically correct
Formal & Business
News & Media
Academia
Science
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
"Dear Applicant: We regret to inform you... .. NO! NO!
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
49 human-written examples
Dear, dear, dear.
News & Media
Dear Job Applicant, Thank you for submitting your resume.
News & Media
I have a few words that I hope will help my fellow college applicants: Dear Rafiki (Friend), I've known you for quite some time now.
News & Media
In our case, the job advert only gave my surname, so I knew that any applicants who wrote "Dear Liz" had taken the time to look for my name on our website – and this really showed initiative.
News & Media
Personal details concerned life experiences, which could be related or unrelated to health care, the applicants' application history, and "near and dear ones" working in health care.
Science
Figures collected in 2003 show that for every vacancy in the Energy & Water/Chemical & Allied sector (the most relevant to you, dear Next Wave readers) there were 42.1 applicants.
Science & Research
Dear Readers, Lately I have received several e-mails from NIH research grant applicants who've started to get a little nervous.
Science & Research
Here, the best choice is usually to address your letter to the specific person in charge of reviewing applicants — usually the department head or HR manager — with a simple "Dear Mr./Ms.
Wiki
"Oh, dear, dear, dear".
News & Media
Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear!
Academia
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "dear applicant", ensure a professional and respectful tone throughout the communication. Tailor the subsequent content to the specific application and demonstrate a genuine interest in the applicant's qualifications.
Common error
Avoid using "dear applicant" in informal settings or internal communications. It is best suited for initial correspondence or formal notifications related to the application process. Consider using more personalized greetings when possible.
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "dear applicant" serves as a salutation in formal communication, typically initiating a letter or email to someone who has applied for a job, program, or other opportunity. According to Ludwig, this phrase is generally considered correct and usable in written English.
Frequent in
Formal & Business
30%
News & Media
25%
Science
25%
Less common in
Academia
10%
Wiki
5%
Encyclopedias
5%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "dear applicant" is a standard salutation used in formal correspondence to individuals who have submitted an application, as indicated by Ludwig. While grammatically correct and widely understood, its frequency is uncommon, and its suitability depends on the context and desired level of personalization. Ludwig AI's analysis indicates that this phrase is most often used in professional settings. When communicating with applicants, it's essential to maintain a balance between formality and personalization, ensuring respect and genuine interest in the applicant's qualifications. Alternatives such as "dear candidate" or a more personalized greeting might be considered depending on the situation.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
dear candidate
A more general term that can be used for any type of selection process, not just job applications.
to the applicant
More formal and impersonal, suitable for official announcements or documents.
applicant
Highly impersonal, omitting the salutation altogether. Suitable for automated systems.
prospective applicant
Refers to someone who is considering applying, rather than someone who has already applied.
dear job seeker
Broader term that includes anyone looking for a job, not specifically those who have applied.
esteemed applicant
More formal and conveys respect, but may sound overly ceremonial in some contexts.
valued applicant
Emphasizes the importance of the applicant, conveying a sense of appreciation.
future applicant
Addressing someone who is expected to apply in the future.
potential applicant
Similar to 'prospective applicant,' indicating someone who may apply.
hello applicant
A more casual and friendly greeting.
FAQs
How can I use "dear applicant" in a sentence?
"Dear applicant", thank you for your interest in our company. We have received a large number of applications and will review yours carefully.
What can I say instead of "dear applicant"?
You can use alternatives like "dear candidate", or "to the applicant", depending on the context.
Is it always appropriate to use "dear applicant" in a cover letter?
While generally acceptable, personalizing your greeting can make a stronger impression. Try to find the hiring manager's name and use "Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name]" instead.
What is the difference between "dear applicant" and "dear candidate"?
"Dear applicant" is used specifically for someone who has already applied for something, whereas "dear candidate" can be used more broadly for someone being considered for a position or opportunity.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested