formally applying for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "formally applying for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the process of submitting an application in a formal context, such as for a job, school, or grant. Example: "I am formally applying for the position of Marketing Manager at your company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

If you are formally applying for a visa to live and work legally in the United Kingdom, then frankly you will be in the minority.

The Guardian

In a joint statement, the operators on Wednesday disputed Three U.K.'s objections, saying that they were already in talks with the European Commission before formally applying for approval later this year.

The New York Times

In a letter to Martin Salter, the Labour MP who chairs the all-party group of Gurkha rights, Jacqui Smith, the home secretary, also gave an assurance that those Gurkhas who are currently living in the UK and who are formally applying for residence would not be deported, regardless of whether they met the settlement criteria.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

In 1995, AquaBounty formally applied for approval.

The New York Times

It formally applied for full membership in 1987.

The Economist

She is believed to have formally applied for an apprehended violence order against Radradra.

The Guardian - Sport

Mr. McGowan said Southwest had yet to formally apply for a terminal expansion.

The New York Times

Both Albania and Iceland formally applied for EU membership in 2009.

Encyclopedia Britannica

6.53pm BST Coombs holds out hope for a presidential pardon, which the Manning legal team will formally apply for.

The Guardian

EasyGroup has asked us to make clear that it did not formally apply for planning permission for the Croydon store.

The Guardian - Business

So, just 10 days after she formally applied for British citizenship, 17-year-old Budd got her passport.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "formally applying for", ensure that the context is indeed formal, such as applying for a job, a grant, or admission to an institution. Using it in informal situations may sound unnatural.

Common error

Avoid using "formally applying for" in casual conversations or informal writing. Phrases like "signing up for" or "requesting" are more appropriate in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "formally applying for" functions as a gerund phrase, typically used as part of a verb phrase. It indicates the action of submitting an application in a formal and official manner. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "formally applying for" is a grammatically sound gerund phrase used to describe the act of submitting an official application. Ludwig AI confirms it as correct and usable in formal contexts. Although the phrase is relatively rare, when used, it usually appears in news articles, encyclopedias and wikis. When writing, make sure to use the phrase in a proper context. Alternatives include "officially requesting" or "submitting an official application".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

making a formal application for

Similar to the original but uses "making a formal application" instead of the gerund.

officially requesting

Replaces "formally applying" with "officially requesting", emphasizing the act of making a formal request.

lodging a formal request for

Uses "lodging" and "request" to convey a similar meaning with a slightly different tone.

filing a formal application for

Uses "filing" to suggest submitting the application to an authority or record.

submitting an official application for

Replaces the gerund phrase with a more noun-based structure, highlighting the submission of an application.

duly applying for

Uses the adverb "duly" to emphasize that the application is being made correctly and according to procedure.

presenting a formal application for

Substitutes "submitting" with "presenting", highlighting the act of offering the application.

initiating a formal application for

Emphasizes the commencement of the application process.

undertaking the formal application process for

Highlights the process rather than the act of applying, indicating involvement in the formal procedures.

completing a formal application for

Shifts the focus to the action of finalizing and submitting application.

FAQs

What does "formally applying for" mean?

The phrase "formally applying for" means to submit an application in a manner that adheres to established rules, procedures, or customs, usually in an official or professional context.

When is it appropriate to use "formally applying for"?

Use "formally applying for" when the situation requires a structured and official application process, such as "applying for a job", a grant, or membership in an organization.

What are some alternatives to "formally applying for"?

Alternatives include "officially requesting", "submitting an official application", or "lodging a formal request", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "applying for" and "formally applying for"?

"Applying for" is a general term, while "formally applying for" specifies that the application is being made through official channels and procedures. The latter implies a more structured process.