application
An application is a formal request for something or a computer program designed to help you do a specific task.
Explanation at your level:
An application is a request. You write an application to get a job. You can also use an application on your phone to play games or talk to friends.
When you want to join a school or get a job, you fill out an application. It is a paper or a form on the computer. Also, we use apps on our phones to help us do things like check the weather or listen to music.
The word application has two main meanings. First, it is a formal document you submit to request something, like a university place. Second, it refers to software programs on your computer. You 'submit' an application for a job, but you 'download' an application for your phone.
Beyond the basic meaning, application refers to the practical use of a theory. For example, the application of scientific principles helps build better bridges. It implies that knowledge is being put to work in a real-world scenario.
In advanced contexts, application can refer to 'diligent effort' or 'persistence'. If someone shows great application to their studies, it means they are working very hard and focusing deeply. This nuance is common in academic and formal literary descriptions.
Historically, application meant the physical act of applying a substance, like a medical ointment. Today, this usage persists in fields like medicine or agriculture (e.g., 'the application of fertilizer'). The word encapsulates the transition from physical contact to abstract request and digital utility.
Mot en 30 secondes
- A formal request for a job or school.
- A software program on a device.
- The act of using something for a purpose.
- Often shortened to 'app' in casual use.
When you hear the word application, think of it as a bridge between a need and a solution. At its heart, it represents the act of applying yourself or your resources to achieve a goal.
In a professional sense, an application is a document or form you submit to ask for a job or a school placement. It shows your intent and qualifications.
In the digital world, we often shorten it to app. These are the programs on your phone that help you calculate, communicate, or play games.
The word application has deep roots in Latin. It comes from the word applicare, which literally means 'to join or attach to'.
Over centuries, it evolved through Old French before entering English in the 14th century. Originally, it was used to describe the act of bringing two things together. By the 17th century, it took on the meaning of 'devoted attention' or 'practical use'.
The modern computer-related usage is a 20th-century development, turning a formal administrative term into a household word for software.
You will see application used in many contexts. In a business setting, you might 'submit an application' or 'review an application'.
When talking about theory, we use it to show relevance: 'The application of physics to engineering.' This shows how abstract ideas become real tools.
In casual conversation, remember that app is the standard shorthand for software, while application remains the standard for formal requests.
While application itself isn't the core of many idioms, it appears in set phrases.
- Make an application: To formally ask for something.
- Practical application: Using knowledge in real life.
- Application form: The physical or digital document used to apply.
- Application process: The steps required to get approved.
- Ready for application: Prepared to be put to use.
Application is a countable noun. You can have one application or many applications. It is typically used with the indefinite article 'an' (an application) because it starts with a vowel sound.
Pronunciation: UK /ˌæplɪˈkeɪʃən/ and US /ˌæpləˈkeɪʃən/. Note the primary stress on the third syllable -ca-.
It rhymes with words like station, creation, and relation.
Fun Fact
The word originally meant physically attaching one thing to another before it meant asking for a job!
Pronunciation Guide
Starts with a short 'a', stress on 'ca'.
Very similar to UK, clear 'shun' at the end.
Common Errors
- Misplacing the stress on the first syllable
- Dropping the 'shun' sound
- Confusing the vowel sounds
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Easy to read
Easy to write
Easy to say
Easy to hear
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Avanc
Grammar to Know
Articles with Vowels
an application
Noun Suffixes
-tion
Countable Nouns
applications
Examples by Level
I sent an application for a job.
I sent a request for work.
Use 'an' before 'a'.
This is a good application.
This is a good program.
Simple subject-verb.
She has a new application.
She has a new program.
Simple possession.
Fill out the application.
Complete the form.
Imperative verb.
I like this application.
I like this app.
Simple present.
Read the application.
Read the request.
Command.
Where is the application?
Where is the form?
Question form.
The application is ready.
The program is ready.
State of being.
The application process is long.
He submitted his job application yesterday.
I downloaded a new application for my phone.
Please complete your application by Friday.
The school reviewed every application carefully.
Her application was accepted by the university.
Is this application free to use?
The application requires a password.
The practical application of this theory is clear.
She showed great application in her music practice.
The application of paint requires a steady hand.
We need to process the loan application today.
Many students are submitting their college applications.
The application allows you to edit photos easily.
He is busy working on his visa application.
The application of heat changes the metal's shape.
The application of these rules is mandatory for all staff.
His application for the grant was rejected.
The software application has a user-friendly interface.
She has applied herself with great application to the project.
The application of logic is essential in debate.
The company is reviewing the application for the new software.
This method has a wide application in modern industry.
The application of the law must be fair.
The direct application of the theory yielded unexpected results.
He demonstrated remarkable application to his doctoral research.
The application of new technologies has revolutionized the sector.
Her application for the position was bolstered by her experience.
The study explores the application of AI in medicine.
The application of pressure caused the glass to shatter.
The committee is considering the application for funding.
His application of the principles was both creative and sound.
The application of such rigorous standards is rarely seen.
The subtle application of color in her painting is masterful.
The application of the treaty remains a point of contention.
His lifelong application to the craft made him a master.
The application of the serum must be precise.
The application of the new policy caused significant debate.
The application of force was deemed necessary.
The application of the rules is subject to interpretation.
Synonymes
Antonymes
Collocations courantes
Idioms & Expressions
"make an application"
To formally request something.
I need to make an application for a permit.
formal"in application"
While being used or applied.
The theory is sound in application.
formal"application of mind"
Focusing one's thoughts on a task.
Success requires the application of mind.
literary"on application"
Available if requested.
Further details are available on application.
formal"by application"
Through the act of applying.
Skills are improved by application.
formal"application pending"
Waiting for a decision.
My status is currently application pending.
formalEasily Confused
Sounds similar.
Appliance is a machine like a fridge.
The kitchen appliance is broken.
Same root.
Applicant is the person.
The applicant is waiting.
Same root.
Apply is the action.
I will apply today.
Starts with 'ap'.
Appointment is a meeting time.
I have an appointment.
Sentence Patterns
Subject + submit + an + application + for + object
I submitted an application for the job.
Subject + review + the + application
They will review the application.
The + application + of + noun + is + adjective
The application of heat is necessary.
Subject + download + an + application
She downloaded an application.
There + is + an + application + for + noun
There is an application for this device.
Famille de mots
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Apparenté
How to Use It
9/10
Formality Scale
Erreurs courantes
Application is abstract or software.
It is a countable noun.
Grammar category error.
It starts with a vowel sound.
They sound slightly similar but mean different things.
Tips
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine a giant form on your desk that turns into a smartphone.
When Native Speakers Use It
They say 'applying for a job' but 'submitting an application'.
Cultural Insight
In the US, college applications are a major life event.
Grammar Shortcut
Always use 'an' before it.
Say It Right
Focus on the 'ca' syllable.
Don't Make This Mistake
Don't use 'app' for a job request.
Did You Know?
The word is over 600 years old!
Study Smart
Use flashcards for collocations.
Context Matters
Check if you mean software or a form.
Noun vs Verb
Remember the -tion ending makes it a noun.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
A-P-P-L-Y: A Person Putting Love Yearly (in their work).
Visual Association
A stack of papers on a desk next to a smartphone.
Word Web
Défi
Try to use the word 'application' in a sentence today regarding your studies.
Origine du mot
Latin
Original meaning: To join or attach to
Contexte culturel
None, universally understood.
In the US, 'filling out an application' is a standard rite of passage for teenagers getting their first job.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
at work
- submit an application
- job application
- review process
school
- college application
- admission application
- deadline
technology
- download an app
- mobile application
- software
science
- practical application
- theory
- research
Conversation Starters
"Have you ever filled out a long job application?"
"What is your favorite application on your phone?"
"Do you think the application of AI is good for society?"
"How do you feel about the college application process?"
"Can you name a practical application for this tool?"
Journal Prompts
Describe your experience with your first job application.
Write about an app you use every single day.
Explain the practical application of a skill you have learned.
How does the application process change as you get older?
Questions fréquentes
8 questionsNo, 'application' is the noun and 'apply' is the verb.
No, use 'application' in formal writing.
Add an 's': applications.
No, it is neutral.
Application is usually a specific form or process.
Because it starts with a vowel sound.
Yes, in formal or academic English.
Yes, for the practical use of a theory.
Teste-toi
I need to fill out this ___ for the job.
Application is the correct term for a job request.
What is an 'app'?
App is short for application.
Is 'application' a verb?
Application is a noun; 'apply' is the verb.
Word
Signification
These are common pairings.
I submitted the application yesterday.
The ___ of the theory was successful.
We need the noun form here.
Which sentence uses 'application' to mean 'diligence'?
In this context, it means hard work.
Can you download an application?
Yes, for software.
Word
Signification
Common collocations.
This technology has wide application.
Score : /10
Summary
An application is a formal request or a tool—both help you get things done!
- A formal request for a job or school.
- A software program on a device.
- The act of using something for a purpose.
- Often shortened to 'app' in casual use.
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine a giant form on your desk that turns into a smartphone.
When Native Speakers Use It
They say 'applying for a job' but 'submitting an application'.
Cultural Insight
In the US, college applications are a major life event.
Grammar Shortcut
Always use 'an' before it.
Exemple
I need to download a new application for editing photos on my phone.
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