C1adjective2K

Eligible

UK /["/ˈelɪdʒəbl/"]/US /["/ˈelɪdʒəbl/"]/

Definition

a person who is eligible for something or to do something, is able to have or do it because they have the right qualifications, are the right age, etc.

In simple words: meeting the necessary requirements to do something

Examples

  • Only those over 70 are eligible for the special payment.
  • The new regulations made a lot of prisoners eligible for early release.
  • You are not considered eligible for legal aid.
  • When are you eligible to vote in your country?

Usage notes

Use 'eligible' when discussing qualifications or suitability, especially in formal contexts like job applications or benefits. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

be eligible + for + noun

Memory hint

Sounds like 'edge-ible' — imagine having a sharp edge makes you qualified for something.

Collocations

  • be eligible for
  • eligible candidates
  • eligible voters

Synonyms

  • qualified
  • suitable
  • entitled
  • fit
  • appropriate

Antonyms

  • ineligible
  • unqualified

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'eligible' with 'legible'
  • Using 'eligible' without the correct preposition
  • Misunderstanding the requirements needed to be 'eligible'