WordGarden.ioeligible
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɛlɪdʒəbəl/
US
- /ˈɛlədʒəbəl/
Meanings
Adjective
qualified or allowed to receive, do, or be chosen for something
suitable and desirable as a possible romantic or marriage partner
Beyond the definition
To be eligible means to meet the specific requirements for something, like a job, a scholarship, a benefit, or a competition. Think of it like reaching the starting line: once you have the right qualifications, you are allowed to take part or be considered. For example, a student might be eligible for a grant if they keep a high GPA, and a citizen becomes eligible to vote once they turn 18. It is all about having the needed conditions to join, apply, or receive something. After all, you would not qualify for a senior discount if you were not a senior!
The word eligible describes someone or something that is qualified, permitted, or legally able to do or receive something. It implies the fulfillment of specific criteria. Think of it like applying for an exclusive club—there are rules about who can join, and only those who meet every requirement are considered eligible members.
You will often hear the term "eligible voters" during an election, referring to people who have the legal right to cast a ballot. Similarly, a job posting might list qualifications, stating that applicants must be "eligible" based on their work authorization, education, or years of experience. It is not just about wanting a position; it is about meeting the stated standards so you can be considered for it.
The idea of eligibility can also extend to suitability. For instance, a person might be described as an "eligible bachelor," meaning they are not only unmarried but also seen as a desirable potential partner.
Historically, eligible comes from Latin roots connected to the idea of choosing. That background fits the modern meaning well: being eligible is not just about wanting something, but about meeting the conditions that make someone a possible choice. So, whether you are applying for a loan, entering a contest, or hoping for a promotion, the word points to the same idea: having what is required to qualify and take part.
Examples
- 1
Voting age
You must be over 18 to be eligible to vote.
- 2
Employee benefits
Only full-time employees are eligible for paid parental leave.
- Patterneligible for + benefit
able to receive it
- 3
Discount rules
She wasn't eligible for the discount because she booked too late.
- 4
Scholarship application
Students who complete the course are eligible to apply for the scholarship.
- Patterneligible to + verb
allowed to do it
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Sports qualification
After three losses, the team was no longer eligible for the finals.
- 6
Marriage prospects
He was once considered one of the city's most eligible bachelors.
- Phraseeligible bachelor
an unmarried man seen as a desirable husband
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- eligible for
- eligible to vote
- eligible for benefits
- eligible candidate
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- eligiblenounadjective
Forms
- eligiblespluralnounadjective