Used and loved by millions

Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

MitStanfordHarvardAustralian Nationa UniversityNanyangOxford

weak application

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "weak application" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an application that lacks strength, effectiveness, or quality, often in contexts like job applications, software, or academic submissions. Example: "After reviewing the candidates, we decided not to proceed with the weak application submitted by Jane."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Last year I made an (admittedly weak) application to Cambridge and was inevitably rejected post-interview.

The weak application of the nationality law and the lack of a clear naturalisation process leaves many ethnic Vietnamese Cambodians in a legal grey area, according to Ou Virak, president at the Cambodian Centre for Human Rights.

News & Media

The Guardian

And as you can see, it's no weak application of the touchscreen interface: he's dragging, he's using multiple fingers, and I'm sure a competent developer (Blizzard, for instance) would be quite capable of mapping abilities, shortcuts, and so on to various gestures.

News & Media

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

But since very few country systems are adequate yet, readily applying them would be dicey, as seen in the grievances from weak applications of national systems, be it in China or India.

News & Media

Huffington Post

As these users become interwoven, it adds a whole new attack vector whereby the weak point in the chain is no longer just the weakest application – it is the weakest application used by the weakest user.

News & Media

TechCrunch

At that point, the security of that user's entire online identity is only as strong as the weakest application they use – which often is to say, very weak.

News & Media

TechCrunch

ERC has toughened up its rules to discourage weaker applications and prevent a flood of submissions: Unsuccessful candidates whose proposals receive a low score in 2014 will be barred from applying again in the following 2 years, instead of one.

Science & Research

Science Magazine

"Lime believes that after selecting two other less experienced electric scooter companies and comparatively weaker applications in a process that was riddled with bias, the SFMTA should revisit the decision and employ a fair selection process," the company wrote in a press release.

News & Media

TechCrunch

In the normal stage, the cavitation in the JPCR is still in absence or too weak for application.

"Instrumental variable analysis with censored data in the presence of many weak instruments: Application to the effect of being sentenced to prison on time to employment". Annals of Applied Statistics.

Ironically, Microsoft files scads of such weak patent applications to use as bargaining chits.

News & Media

The New York Times
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When evaluating submissions, use "weak application" to concisely describe those lacking necessary strengths or qualities, providing clear feedback.

Common error

Avoid using "weak application" when the issues are minor or easily fixable. Instead, opt for more nuanced language like "application needing improvement" to encourage revisions rather than discourage submissions outright.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

82%

Authority and reliability

4.1/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "weak application" functions as an adjective-noun construction, where "weak" modifies the noun "application". As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase correctly describes an application that lacks strength or effectiveness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "weak application" is a grammatically sound and readily understandable expression for describing an application lacking in quality or effectiveness. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for various contexts, including academic, scientific, and general usage. While alternatives such as "poor application" or "inadequate application" may be used, the key is to apply the phrase judiciously, ensuring it accurately reflects the application's shortcomings without being overly critical. When providing feedback, framing is crucial; emphasize areas for improvement rather than simply labeling an application as "weak".

FAQs

How can I identify a "weak application"?

A "weak application" typically lacks clear objectives, sufficient evidence, or persuasive arguments. It may also contain grammatical errors or fail to address the specific requirements of the application process.

What are some alternatives to saying "weak application"?

You can use alternatives like "poor application", "subpar application", or "inadequate application" depending on the specific context.

What makes an application "weak" in an academic context?

In academia, a "weak application" might lack a strong research proposal, compelling personal statement, or sufficient academic background to support the applicant's claims.

How can I avoid submitting a "weak application"?

To avoid submitting a "weak application", carefully review all requirements, seek feedback from mentors or advisors, and revise your materials to address any identified weaknesses.

ChatGPT power + Grammarly precisionChatGPT power + Grammarly precision
ChatGPT + Grammarly

Editing plus AI, all in one place.

Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.

Source & Trust

82%

Authority and reliability

4.1/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: