is applying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is applying" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is a combination of the verb "apply" in the present progressive tense. For example: "She is applying to several universities for her postgraduate studies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Something is applying the brakes.

The New York Times - Magazine

She is applying for public housing.

The New York Times

The first step is applying.

The Guardian

One of them is applying to university.

The New York Times

She is applying to graduate school.

The New York Times

The company is applying for a patent.

The New York Times

She is applying to law school.

The New York Times

And now he is applying his knowledge.

The New York Times - Sports

"All we are doing is applying the existing rules".

The New York Times

He is applying a similar approach to Radio Times.

The Guardian

And now their youngest son is applying to the college.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing ongoing processes or current actions, use "is applying" to clearly indicate the present continuous tense. This is particularly useful in scientific reports, news articles, and instructional content.

Common error

Avoid using "is applying" when you need to express a general truth or habitual action. Use the simple present tense "applies" instead. For example, "This rule applies to everyone" not "This rule is applying to everyone."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is applying" functions as a verb phrase in the present continuous tense. It indicates an action that is currently taking place. This is verified by Ludwig and its examples, showing its common use in describing ongoing processes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is applying" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe actions currently in progress. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical correctness and prevalence in various contexts, particularly in news and media, science, and business, make it an essential part of English vocabulary. Remember to use it for ongoing actions and to avoid it when expressing general truths. Exploring alternatives like "is utilizing" or "is implementing" can add nuance to your writing. By understanding its function, purpose, and common errors, you can effectively incorporate "is applying" into your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is utilizing

Emphasizes the practical use of something, similar to applying but focusing more on utility.

is employing

Implies using something as a means to an end, closely related to applying a method or technique.

is implementing

Focuses on putting a plan or system into effect, suggesting a more structured approach than simply applying.

is putting into practice

Emphasizes the transition from theory to action, implying practical application.

is executing

Conveys a sense of carrying out or performing a task, often with a specific goal.

is administering

Suggests managing or supervising the application of something, like a test or treatment.

is bringing to bear

Suggests focusing resources or abilities on a specific problem or situation.

is wielding

Implies handling a tool or influence with skill or force, adding a sense of power to the act of applying.

is exerting

Highlights the effort or force being put into the act of applying pressure or influence.

is availing oneself of

A more formal way of saying someone is making use of something that is available.

FAQs

How can I use "is applying" in a sentence?

Use "is applying" to describe an action that is currently in progress. For example, "The student "is applying" for a scholarship" indicates they are in the process of submitting their application.

What are some alternatives to "is applying"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "is utilizing", "is employing", or "is implementing".

What's the difference between "is applying" and "applies"?

"Is applying" is in the present continuous tense, used for actions happening now. "Applies" is in the simple present tense, used for general truths or habitual actions. For example, "She "is applying" the cream now," versus "This rule "applies" to everyone".

Is it correct to say "is apply" instead of "is applying"?

No, "is apply" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "is applying", which uses the present participle of the verb "apply" to form the present continuous tense.