present credentials

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "present credentials" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is required to show or provide their qualifications or identification, often in formal or professional settings. Example: "Before entering the secure area, all personnel must present credentials to the security officer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Archives|DEBT MOVE EXPECTED SOON.; French Envoy to Present Credentials to President Tomorrow.

The New York Times

DEBT MOVE EXPECTED SOON.; French Envoy to Present Credentials to President Tomorrow.

The New York Times

But the Yugoslav Foreign Ministry has insisted that countries abide by the Vienna conventions governing diplomacy and present credentials to the head of state.

The New York Times

The envoy would not present credentials, Dupont explained, as he was representing the Rhodesian government, and not its head of state, Queen Elizabeth II.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

I yield to nobody in presenting credentials as a Kissinger critic.

The New York Times

TELLEZ NOW AMBASSADOR.; First Accredited Mexican Envoy in Many Years Presents Credentials.

The New York Times

Archives|TELLEZ NOW AMBASSADOR.; First Accredited Mexican Envoy in Many Years Presents Credentials.

The New York Times

The Ancients, opening the show, devoted one rap, "What You Know About," to naming old-school names, as if presenting credentials.

The New York Times

It makes you look more respectable when applying for jobs related to your field or presenting credentials to potential clients; as these associations comprise of experts and industry professionals within their respective fields.

Forbes

New UNICEF Representative presents credentials to Government Pretoria, 10 November 2008… Aida Girma, the new UNICEF Representative in South Africa, today presented her credentials to the Government of South Africa, represented by Dr. Manto Tshabalala-Msimang, Minister in the Presidency.

Unicef

America's ambassador to Iraq, John Negroponte, will present his credentials to the new president of Iraq.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "present credentials" in formal writing, ensure the context clearly indicates the authority or individual to whom the credentials are being presented.

Common error

Avoid using "present credentials" in casual conversation; opt for simpler phrases like "show your ID" or "prove your qualifications" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "present credentials" functions as a verb phrase, where "present" is the verb indicating the action of showing or submitting, and "credentials" is the noun representing the qualifications or documents being shown. Ludwig AI indicates it's usable in contexts where qualifications or identification are required.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "present credentials" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon phrase used to describe the act of formally submitting or showing qualifications or authorization. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in formal contexts, such as diplomacy and professional settings. Common synonyms include "submit credentials" and "provide credentials". While it’s appropriate for formal writing, avoid using it in casual contexts. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media, reflecting its use in reporting official events and procedures.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

submit credentials

Focuses on the act of formally handing over documents.

provide credentials

Highlights the action of supplying the necessary documentation.

offer proof of qualifications

Emphasizes the act of demonstrating one's competence or eligibility.

furnish documentation

Refers to the supply of official papers or records.

produce accreditation

Highlights showing official recognition or certification.

show authorization

Emphasizes the display of official permission or approval.

display qualifications

Focuses on making one's skills or achievements visible.

validate accreditation

Refers to confirming the legitimacy of official recognition.

demonstrate competence

Stresses the act of proving one's capabilities.

establish eligibility

Focuses on proving one meets the requirements for a position or role.

FAQs

What does it mean to "present credentials"?

To "present credentials" means to formally submit or show documents or qualifications that demonstrate one's identity, authorization, or competence, especially in professional or diplomatic contexts.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "present credentials"?

The phrase "present credentials" is appropriate in formal settings such as diplomatic ceremonies, job applications, or when interacting with authorities who require proof of identity or qualifications. It's less suitable for casual conversations.

What are some alternatives to "present credentials"?

You can use alternatives like "submit credentials", "provide credentials", or "offer proof of qualifications" depending on the context.

How does "present credentials" differ from "show your ID"?

"Present credentials" typically implies a more formal and comprehensive submission of qualifications or documentation, while "show your ID" is a simpler request for identification, often in less formal situations.