make an application

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make an application" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of formally requesting something, such as a job, admission, or a grant. Example: "I decided to make an application for the scholarship to further my studies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I'm going to make an application.

The New Yorker

§ 1.102(d) - to make an application special.

Cornell University

They could make an application to see the Garcia report.

The Guardian - Sport

They will have to make an application by the end of this month.

The Guardian - Opinion

Close relatives of a deceased person may also make an application.

The Guardian

"You want to have him examined, you can make an application.

The New York Times

EU citizens have until 31 December 2020 to make an application under the scheme.

The Guardian

"I don't think we are going to make an application that competes with Facebook," she said.

The New York Times

The Seoul Museum of Art (SMOA) was selected to make an application of DSADP.

Building and Environment

The BBA said it was "considering whether to make an application to appeal" before the 10 May deadline.

The Guardian - Business

I would very much hope that his appeal is resurrected and that somebody does make an application to the SCCRC.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the formality of the situation. While "make an application" is generally acceptable, more formal contexts might benefit from alternatives like "submit an application".

Common error

Avoid using "make an application" when you actually mean to describe the act of using an existing application, such as a software program. In those cases, use "use the application" or "run the application" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make an application" functions as a verb phrase where "make" acts as the main verb and "an application" serves as the direct object. According to Ludwig, this phrase is a standard way to describe the act of formally requesting something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

18%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make an application" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to describe the act of formally requesting something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use. While generally neutral in register, consider more formal alternatives like "submit an application" in certain contexts. Be mindful of potential confusion with describing the use of software applications. This phrase is frequently found in news articles and academic texts, making it a versatile choice for various writing purposes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

submit an application

Replaces "make" with "submit", emphasizing the act of formally handing in the application.

file an application

Uses "file" instead of "make", focusing on the act of officially recording or lodging the application.

lodge an application

Employs "lodge" to suggest formally presenting the application to an authority.

put in an application

Replaces "make" with "put in", offering a more informal way to express the action.

present an application

Uses "present" to emphasize the act of formally introducing or submitting the application.

initiate an application

Replaces "make" with "initiate", highlighting the start or beginning of the application process.

start an application

Uses "start" instead of "make", simply focusing on beginning the application.

prepare an application

Highlights the act of getting the application ready.

complete an application

Highlights the act of finishing and application.

process an application

Focuses on the handling and dealing of the application.

FAQs

What does it mean to "make an application"?

To "make an application" means to formally request something, such as admission to a school, a job, or a grant. It involves preparing and submitting the required documents and information.

What are some alternatives to "make an application"?

You can use alternatives like "submit an application", "file an application", or "lodge an application" depending on the context. These alternatives offer slightly different nuances in meaning.

Is it better to say "make an application" or "submit an application"?

Both "make an application" and "submit an application" are correct, but "submit an application" might be perceived as more formal. Choose the phrasing that best suits the tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "making an application" and "completing an application"?

"Making an application" refers to the entire process of preparing and submitting a request. "Completing an application" refers specifically to filling out all the required fields and providing the necessary information before submission. One action is broader while the other is more specific.