application
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application
The formal request for a job, a place at university, or an apartment, often involving the submission of documents.
Ich habe meine Bewerbung für die Stelle als Projektmanager gestern abgeschickt.
I sent off my application for the project manager position yesterday.
The noun 'die Bewerbung' (application) is derived directly from the verb 'sich bewerben' (to apply). The ending '-ung' is a very common way for German verbs to become feminine nouns.
Er muss sich bis Freitag für den Job bewerben.
He has to apply for the job by Friday.
When applying for something, you use 'Bewerbung um' or 'Bewerbung auf' with the accusative. When naming the place or company where you are applying, you use 'Bewerbung bei' with the dative.
Ihre Bewerbung um das Stipendium war erfolgreich.
Her application for the scholarship was successful.
In connection with the application process, the verbs 'eine Bewerbung schreiben' (to write an application), 'eine Bewerbung abschicken' (to send off an application), or 'eine Bewerbung einreichen' (to submit an application) are often used.
Hast du deine Bewerbung schon geschrieben?
Have you already written your application?
When the documents are meant, 'Bewerbung' (application) is often combined with adjectives like 'vollständig' (complete) or 'schriftlich' (written), or appears in the plural ('Bewerbungen', applications). It then refers to the documents themselves.
Bitte senden Sie uns Ihre vollständige Bewerbung per E-Mail.
Please send us your complete application documents by email.
application / proposal
'der Antrag' and 'die Bewerbung' are both formal applications or requests. You often submit documents and wait for a decision. The difference lies in the goal. 'Antrag' is more general: for example, you can apply for money, vacation time, a permit, or support. 'Bewerbung' is used especially when you want to get a job, a university place, or an apartment. In addition, 'die Bewerbung' can also mean the application documents themselves. Learners may confuse the words because both feel official. As a practical rule: for a job, university, or an apartment, you usually say 'Bewerbung'; for many other official requests, 'Antrag'.
Im Büro liegt meine Bewerbung für die neue Stelle schon bereit.
My application for the new position is already ready in the office.
Der Lehrer unterschreibt heute den Antrag für die Klassenfahrt.
The teacher is signing the application for the class trip today.