Phrasal verb
apply for
Meanings
to make a formal request for a job, place, or opportunity by submitting an application
to request officially to receive permission or a document (such as a visa or license)
Definition
To apply for something means to formally ask to be considered for a job, program, or permission.
When you apply for something, you send an official request to be considered, often by filling out a form or submitting documents. People commonly apply for jobs, courses, visas, and grants. It usually means you want someone to review your qualifications and decide whether to accept your request.
Examples
- I applied for the marketing job last night.
- She applied for a student exchange program at her university.
- They applied for a visa before booking the flight.
- He applied for an internship to gain more experience.
Common mistake
Learners often say "apply to a job" instead of "apply for a job" (you apply to a company, but apply for a job).
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.