prior to applying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'prior to applying' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that something should be done before making an official application or request. For example, "Prior to applying for a job online, make sure you meet the necessary qualifications."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

For questions, contact us prior to applying.

Harvard University

What were you doing prior to applying to STEP?

Stanford University

What were you doing prior to applying to the GSE?

Stanford University

Grids were glow-discharged for 30 seconds prior to applying the sample (easiGlow, Ted Pella).

Nature

The car manufacturer claims to use just these types of feathers to clean its vehicles prior to applying paint.

The Guardian

The specimens contain embedded delamination caused by low velocity impact prior to applying the flexural load.

Composite Structures

Please review content on the Digital Refuge website prior to applying (link provided below).

University of California, Berkeley

It is wise to build a strong portfolio of experiences prior to applying to supervised practice.

Cornell University

We correct for the truncation errors using Nicolson ramp prior to applying the FFT.

Journal of the Franklin Institute

He completed his Chief year at Yale prior to applying for Pulmonology and Critical Care Fellowship.

Yale University

Other students volunteer to work with the faculty prior to applying.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "prior to applying", ensure that the context clearly states what action should be taken beforehand. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid vague statements. Instead of saying "Check requirements prior to applying", specify which requirements: "Check the eligibility requirements prior to applying for the grant."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prior to applying" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or clause, indicating the timing of an action in relation to the act of applying. It sets a chronological order, ensuring a condition or action is completed beforehand. Ludwig confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

31%

Science

34%

News & Media

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "prior to applying" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that indicates the necessity of completing an action or considering certain information before submitting an application. As shown by Ludwig, it is particularly common in academic, scientific, and news contexts. When using this phrase, clarity and specificity are key to ensure the intended message is effectively conveyed. Remember that while "prior to applying" is more formal, alternatives like "before applying" can be used in less formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

before application

This alternative uses a noun form of 'apply', making it slightly more concise.

ahead of applying

Using 'ahead of' maintains the temporal relationship but offers a slightly different prepositional choice.

previous to application

Replaces 'applying' with 'application', altering the grammatical structure.

in advance of applying

Emphasizes the 'beforehand' aspect more explicitly.

before submitting

Focuses on the action of 'submitting' as the application process.

preceding the application

Uses a more formal tone and emphasizes the sequence of events.

on the eve of applying

Implies something happening very shortly before the application.

in anticipation of applying

Highlights the expectation of applying, focusing on readiness.

until application

Indicates the end of a waiting period just before applying.

leading up to applying

Focuses on the period of preparation before the application.

FAQs

What does "prior to applying" mean?

The phrase "prior to applying" means before submitting an application or formally requesting something. It indicates a necessary action or condition that must be met beforehand.

How can I use "prior to applying" in a sentence?

You can use it to specify actions that need to be completed before an application process. For example, "Prospective students should read the visa procedures "prior to applying"."

What are some alternatives to "prior to applying"?

Some alternatives include "before application", "ahead of applying", or "in advance of applying". Each has a slightly different nuance but conveys a similar meaning.

Is there a difference between "before applying" and "prior to applying"?

While both phrases mean the same thing, "prior to applying" is generally considered more formal than "before applying". You can use either depending on the tone you want to convey.