- Have you ever wondered if you should “make” or “submit” an application?
- Do you know the difference between a “mobile application” and a “practical application”?
- Are you looking for the most natural verbs to use when talking about job hunting or software development?
Mastering collocations—words that naturally hang out together—is the secret to moving from “textbook English” to sounding like a fluent, confident speaker. When it comes to the word application, using the right verb or adjective can change your message from a job request to a technical discussion about software. This guide will help you navigate these word partnerships with ease and precision.
Essential Collocations using APPLICATION as a Noun
In modern English, “application” is primarily used as a noun. However, it carries three distinct meanings: a formal request (like for a job), a piece of software (an “app”), and the act of putting something into practice. Let’s break down the collocations for each context.
1. Job, Academic, and Formal Requests
When you are applying for a position or a permit, these verb-noun combinations are essential for professional communication.
- Submit an application: The most common way to say you’ve sent your forms. (Example: Please submit your application by Friday.)
- Process an application: What the HR department does after receiving your files. (Example: The admissions office is currently processing your application.)
- Withdraw an application: To cancel your request. (Example: I decided to withdraw my application after receiving a better offer.)
- Reject/Turn down an application: When the request is not successful. (Example: Unfortunately, the bank rejected his loan application.)
- A formal application: A professional, official request. (Example: You must file a formal application to obtain a visa.)
2. Technology and Software (Apps)
In the digital age, “application” (often shortened to “app”) refers to programs on your phone or computer.
- Launch an application: To start or open a program. (Example: Simply double-click the icon to launch the application.)
- Install/Uninstall an application: To put a program on or take it off a device. (Example: You need to install the application before you can use the features.)
- Mobile application: Software specifically for smartphones. (Example: Our company is developing a new mobile application for fitness.)
- Web-based application: Software that runs in a browser. (Example: Google Docs is a popular web-based application.)
- Crash/Freeze: When an application stops working. (Example: The application crashed because the memory was too low.)
3. Practical Use and Diligent Effort
This context refers to how a theory is used in real life or how hard someone works.
- Practical application: Using a theory in a real-world situation. (Example: The course focuses on the practical application of physics.)
- Wide application: Something that can be used in many different areas. (Example: This new technology has wide application in the medical field.)
- Steady application: Hard, consistent work. (Example: Through steady application to her studies, she topped the class.)
- Clinical application: Use within a medical environment. (Example: The drug is still undergoing tests for clinical application.)
The Master Summary Table
| Collocation | Part of Speech | Quick Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Submit an application | Verb + Noun | To officially hand in a request/form. |
| Mobile application | Adjective + Noun | A software program for phones. |
| Successful application | Adjective + Noun | An application that was accepted. |
| Practical application | Adjective + Noun | The real-world use of an idea. |
| Process an application | Verb + Noun | To review or deal with a request. |
| Grant an application | Verb + Noun | To officially approve a request. |
Common Mistakes: Natural vs Unnatural
| Do Not Say | Say This |
|---|---|
| I made an application for the job. | I submitted (or) sent in an application for the job. |
| Open the mobile app application. | Launch the application. |
| The theory has no use application. | The theory has no practical application. |
| I took back my application. | I withdrew my application. |
“After weeks of searching, I finally decided to submit an application for the Senior Developer role. I was worried they might reject the application because I lack practical application in cloud security, but the HR manager confirmed they are processing my application now. In the meantime, I’ve been testing their new mobile application to find any bugs before it hits the store.”
Frequently Asked Questions about Application Collocations
Which preposition follows “application”?
It depends on the context. Use “application for” for a goal (application for a job, application for a grant). Use “application of” for a method (application of a theory, application of paint). Use “application to” when referring to a recipient or a place (my application to Harvard).
Is “app” always acceptable as a synonym for “application”?
In casual conversation and tech contexts, yes. However, in formal academic writing or legal documents, you should always use the full word “application.”
What is the difference between “fill out” and “submit” an application?
“Fill out” refers to the process of writing information in the blanks of a form. “Submit” refers to the final act of sending that completed form to the person or organization.
Can I say “put an application”?
No, this is a common learner error. You should use “put in an application” (informal) or “submit an application” (formal).
What does “patient application” mean?
In this context, it usually means working on something with calm, steady persistence over a long period. It is less common in tech talk but very common in literature and psychology.
Is 'processed' a good verb for application? Like 'the office processed my application'?
Perfect, Ji-Hoon! 'Process an application' is the standard way to describe the administrative work of checking and approving a request.
I'm confused by 'letter of application.' Is that the same as a 'cover letter'?
Can I use 'application' for medicine? Like 'the application of cream to the skin'?
Excellent observation, Dmitri! That is the third meaning of the word: the act of putting something onto a surface. 'Topical application' is a common medical collocation.
What is the difference between a 'job application' and a 'resume'? Some of my colleagues use them interchangeably.
In India, we often use 'put in an application.' Is this common in other English-speaking countries?
Yes, Priya! 'Put in an application' is a very common, slightly more casual way to say 'submit' or 'apply.' It's used frequently in the UK, Australia, and parts of the US.
I've heard the term 'killer app' in a podcast. Is that short for 'killer application'?
I once heard someone say 'apply an application.' I thought that sounded strange. Is that correct English?
You have a good ear, Sofia! 'Apply an application' is redundant and incorrect. You 'submit an application' or you 'apply for a job,' but you don't do both at the same time!
Is there a difference between 'withdrawing an application' and 'canceling' it? I need to tell a recruiter I found another job.
I saw the phrase 'pending application' on a website. Does that mean it was received or rejected?
Hi Amara! 'Pending' means it is still being processed or reviewed. It’s neither accepted nor rejected yet—you're just waiting for a decision!
In the tech world, we use 'web application' all the time. Is 'software application' redundant, or is it okay to say both words together?