formal request / application
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formal request
A formal, usually written request or application to an authority, an institution, or a person in an official position.
Er reichte ein Gesuch um eine Baugenehmigung bei der Stadt ein.
He submitted a formal request for a building permit to the city.
The noun 'Gesuch' (formal request) is derived from the verb 'suchen' (to search/look for). It describes the result of a formal search or request for something, for example a permit or support.
Sein Gesuch um finanzielle Unterstützung wurde geprüft.
His request for financial support was reviewed.
A 'Gesuch' (formal request) is 'eingereicht' (submitted) or 'gestellt' (made/filed) with an authority or institution. The authority can then 'bewilligen' (approve) or 'ablehnen' (reject) the request.
Leider wurde mein Gesuch um einen Studienplatz abgelehnt.
Unfortunately, my application for a place at university was rejected.
When you want to specify what the request is about, you usually use the preposition 'um' or 'auf' followed by the accusative.
Sie stellte ein Gesuch um Akteneinsicht.
She submitted a request for access to the files.
'Gesuch' is a formal word used mainly in administrative and written language. It is the official term for a formal request to an institution.
Bitte reichen Sie Ihr Gesuch schriftlich und mit allen erforderlichen Unterlagen ein.
Please submit your request in writing and with all required documents.
application / proposal
Antrag and Gesuch both refer to a formal request to an authority or institution. In present-day standard German, Antrag is usually the more general and common choice, while Gesuch sounds especially official or bureaucratic. Use Antrag in general usage and Gesuch when you want to emphasize the formal setting.
Ich habe das Gesuch auf einen Zuschuss gestern bei der Behörde eingereicht.
I submitted the formal request for a grant to the authorities yesterday.
Ich habe den Antrag auf einen Zuschuss gestern bei der Behörde eingereicht.
I submitted the application for a grant to the authorities yesterday.
