apply
B1Neutral to Formal (depending on context)
Definition
Meaning
To put something into contact with something else, or to make a formal request.
To make use of something relevant (e.g., a rule, principle, or skill) in a particular situation; to bring oneself into contact with something; to be pertinent or relevant.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The verb 'apply' can be transitive or intransitive, with a significant meaning shift between its physical sense ('apply cream') and its abstract/administrative sense ('apply for a job').
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minimal. Minor spelling in derived forms (e.g., BrE 'application form', AmE also 'application form'). The verb itself is identical in use.
Connotations
None specific to either variety.
Frequency
Equally frequent and core in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
apply something TO something/someoneapply FOR somethingapply TO someone/something (an institution)apply (oneself) TO somethingVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Apply the brakes”
- “Apply one's mind to something”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
To submit a formal request for employment, funding, or a permit. E.g., 'Candidates must apply via the portal.'
Academic
To use a theory, method, or law in a specific case. E.g., 'The researcher will apply a quantitative analysis.'
Everyday
To put something onto a surface. E.g., 'Apply sunscreen before going out.'
Technical
To bring a force, substance, or process into operation. E.g., 'Apply a voltage to the circuit.'
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- You must apply to the council for planning permission.
- Apply the ointment thinly to the affected area.
- The same standards apply to everyone.
American English
- You need to apply to the college by January 1st.
- Apply the glue evenly across the surface.
- The law applies in all 50 states.
adverb
British English
- It is appliedly difficult to master.
- (Note: 'appliedly' is extremely rare and non-standard; 'applicably' is the standard derived adverb, meaning 'in an applicable manner').
American English
- The theory was applicably used in the experiment.
- (See note for British).
adjective
British English
- The applicable fee must be paid.
- He lacked the applicable experience for the role.
American English
- Check the applicable state laws.
- The applicable discount will be applied at checkout.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Apply the bandage to your knee.
- I want to apply for a passport.
- Does this rule apply to children?
- You should apply for the scholarship before the deadline.
- He applied too much pressure and broke the handle.
- The new software is easy to apply in your daily work.
- The company plans to apply innovative techniques to reduce waste.
- Having applied herself diligently, she passed all her exams.
- The judge ruled that the precedent did not apply to this unique case.
- The principles of quantum mechanics can be applied to computational biology.
- He applied a nuanced interpretation of the treaty to justify the diplomatic stance.
- The researcher applied a critical lens to the historical narrative.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of APPlying for a job where you put (APPLY) your name on the application.
Conceptual Metaphor
KNOWLEDGE/IDEAS ARE SUBSTANCES THAT CAN BE SPREAD ('Apply logic to the problem').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Confusing 'apply for' (подавать заявление) with 'apply to' (обращаться к/применять к).
- Misusing 'apply' for the simple act of asking without a formal process (use 'ask' instead).
- Overlooking the need for a preposition ('apply' vs. 'apply for/to').
Common Mistakes
- *I applied a university. (Correct: I applied to a university.)
- *She applied a job. (Correct: She applied for a job.)
- *This rule doesn't apply for me. (Correct: This rule doesn't apply to me.)
Practice
Quiz
Which preposition correctly completes this sentence: 'The discount only applies ___ orders placed online.'
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Apply for' is used when you request something (a job, a loan, permission). 'Apply to' is used when you direct your application to an institution (a university, a company) OR when a rule is relevant for someone/something.
No, the standard adjective is 'applicable'. 'Appliable' is obsolete and not used in modern English.
Yes, in its 'be relevant' sense. E.g., 'The old regulations no longer apply.' Also in the reflexive sense: 'He needs to apply if he wants to succeed.'
The main noun forms are 'application' (the act of applying or a formal request) and 'applicant' (a person who applies).
Collections
Part of a collection
Work and Jobs
A2 · 49 words · Jobs, professions and the world of work.