lack of application

USAGE SUMMARY

"lack of application" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which a person or group fails to carry out or take action on something that is needed or required. For example, "The team's lack of application was evident in their failure to complete the task on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

I've seen far too many would-be writers come to grief through lack of application rather than lack of talent.

The Guardian - Books

Her Republican fans defend her lack of application and intellect, happy to settle for her emotional electricity.

The New York Times

Speaking very frankly about their poor start, he  put their inconsistency down to a lack of application from key players.

Independent

"We need to do things differently, as a profession we are constantly criticised for the lack of theory, the lack of application.

The Guardian

Under Paddy Ashdown's leadership, Kennedy held various portfolios, even if he occasionally exasperated the hyperactive Ashdown with his determined lack of application.

The Guardian

After a sparkling start to his Parisian career, the 23-year-old's form and confidence dipped and quibbles arose about a perceived lack of application.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

While the city has made progress in eliminating bureaucratic barriers to receiving the federally subsidized food coupons, like a lack of applications at centers, it continues to turn away applicants who, among other things, apply without a Social Security number even though a number is not required, only a name, an address and a signature.

The New York Times

The lack of applications and the BlackBerry World cumbersome experience didn't help either.

The Guardian

Will the lack of applications like Instagram and Angry Birds in Space be enough to turn off smartphone shoppers?

The New York Times

However, there is a severe lack of applications that can make use of this data.

Optik - International Journal for Light and Electron Optics

Mason's pinning high hopes on the refit, although one thing puzzles her: the lack of applications for a 20-hour per week job they have been advertising.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing performance issues, use "lack of application" to specifically highlight a deficiency in effort and focus, rather than inherent ability. This frames the issue as a correctable behavior.

Common error

Avoid using "lack of application" too frequently in formal reports. While grammatically correct, overusing it can make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, vary your language with synonyms like "insufficient effort" or "negligence in execution" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of application" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the absence of dedicated effort or focused attention toward a specific task or goal. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples from varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

49%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lack of application" is a commonly used noun phrase to describe the absence of focused and dedicated effort. Ludwig AI's analysis, supported by numerous examples from news, science, and business sources, confirms its grammatical correctness and versatile usage. When using this phrase, consider the context and audience to ensure the appropriate level of formality. While suitable for various settings, overuse should be avoided by varying with synonyms like "insufficient effort" or "deficiency in diligence".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

failure to apply oneself

Highlights the individual's failure to engage actively and purposefully.

insufficient effort

Indicates that the amount of work or energy put in was not enough.

absence of effort

Emphasizes the complete absence of any attempt or exertion.

inadequate attention

Focuses on the insufficient focus or consideration given to a task or subject.

shortage of focus

Highlights the lack of concentration or directed attention.

negligence in execution

Highlights the careless or inadequate way a task was carried out.

deficiency in diligence

Focuses on the insufficient dedication and thoroughness in performing duties.

absence of industry

Focuses on the lack of consistent hard work and productivity.

paucity of dedication

Emphasizes the limited amount of commitment and devotion.

want of commitment

Stresses the absence of dedication and resolve.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "lack of application" in a more formal way?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "deficiency in diligence", "negligence in execution", or "inadequate attention". These alternatives convey a similar meaning while maintaining a higher level of formality.

Is "lack of application" the same as "lack of effort"?

While similar, "lack of application" specifically refers to the absence of focused and purposeful effort towards a task or goal. "Lack of effort", on the other hand, is a more general term that describes any absence of exertion.

When is it appropriate to use "lack of application"?

It is appropriate to use "lack of application" when you want to emphasize the absence of focused, directed effort. This phrase is suitable for discussing performance issues, academic performance, or project management where diligence is expected.

What are some common causes of "lack of application"?

Common causes include a lack of motivation, poor time management skills, unclear goals, or external distractions. Addressing these underlying issues can help improve an individual's application to tasks.