This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A2 verb #393 most common 15 min read

apply

Top 393

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips apply in 30 Seconds

Explanation apply in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'apply' is most commonly used when talking about jobs or school. It means to ask for something in a formal way. You usually 'apply for' a job. For example, 'I want to apply for a job at the supermarket.' You can also 'apply to' a place, like 'I want to apply to a university.' At this level, you should focus on the idea of asking for a position or a place. It is a very important word for people who are looking for work or wanting to study in an English-speaking country. You might also see it in very simple instructions, like 'apply the glue,' which means to put the glue on something. Think of 'apply' as a formal way of saying 'ask for' or 'put on.' It is always an action you do to get something or to start a process. Remember the word 'application,' which is the paper you fill out when you apply. If you go to a shop and ask for a job, they might give you an 'application form.' You fill it out and then you 'apply.' This is the most basic and useful way to use the word when you are just starting to learn English. Try to practice saying 'I am applying for...' followed by a job title. This will help you feel more confident in professional situations.

At the A2 level, you begin to see 'apply' used in more daily situations, especially involving physical things. You will learn that 'apply' means to put a substance onto a surface. For example, 'Apply sunscreen before you go outside' or 'Apply the cream to your arm.' In these cases, it means to spread or rub something on. You also continue to use 'apply' for jobs and schools, but you might start to use it with more detail. You might say, 'I applied for a visa last week' or 'He applied to three different colleges.' Another important use at this level is when talking about rules. You might hear someone say, 'This rule does not apply to children.' This means the rule is not for children; it is not relevant to them. This is a very common way to use 'apply' in public places, like parks or swimming pools, where there are signs with rules. So, at A2, 'apply' has three main meanings: 1. To ask for a job or place (apply for/to). 2. To put something on a surface (apply cream). 3. To be relevant or for someone (the rule applies to you). Understanding these three uses will cover most of the times you hear or see the word in everyday life.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable with the physical and administrative uses of 'apply' and start exploring its more abstract meanings. One key phrase at this level is 'to apply oneself.' This means to work very hard and focus all your energy on a task. For example, 'If you apply yourself to your studies, you will get good grades.' This is a great way to describe someone who is dedicated and hardworking. You will also see 'apply' used in more technical or professional contexts. For instance, 'How can we apply this theory to our project?' In this sense, 'apply' means to use an idea or a method in a specific situation. It’s about taking something general and making it work for a specific problem. You might also encounter the word in more complex grammar, like the passive voice: 'The new law was applied to all citizens.' This shifts the focus to the law itself. At B1, you should also be careful with prepositions. You 'apply for' a grant, 'apply to' a director, and 'apply' a method 'to' a problem. The word 'applicable' also becomes useful at this level as an adjective, meaning 'relevant.' For example, 'Is this information applicable to my case?' Mastering these nuances shows that you are moving beyond basic English and can handle more professional and academic discussions.

At the B2 level, 'apply' is used with greater precision and in more specialized fields. You will encounter it frequently in academic writing and professional reports. In these contexts, 'apply' often refers to the implementation of complex systems, theories, or legal frameworks. For example, 'The researcher applied a qualitative approach to the study.' This means they used a specific scientific method. You will also see it used in the context of physics or engineering to describe the exertion of force: 'A constant pressure was applied to the valve.' In business, you might hear about 'applying a discount' or 'applying a credit' to an account, which means to make a financial adjustment. The reflexive use 'apply oneself' remains important, but you might also see 'apply' used with abstract nouns like 'logic,' 'reason,' or 'pressure.' For instance, 'The government applied diplomatic pressure to resolve the conflict.' This shows a more sophisticated use of the word to describe social and political actions. At B2, you should also be aware of the noun 'applicability' and the adverb 'applied,' as in 'applied mathematics' or 'applied linguistics.' These terms refer to branches of study that focus on practical uses rather than just theory. Your ability to use 'apply' in these varied and abstract ways is a hallmark of an upper-intermediate learner.

At the C1 level, you are expected to understand the most subtle and formal uses of 'apply.' This includes its use in legal discourse, where 'the application of the law' refers to how legal principles are interpreted and used in specific court cases. You will see phrases like 'as applied to,' which is used to clarify the scope of a rule or theory. For example, 'The principle of free speech, as applied to digital platforms, is a subject of much debate.' Here, 'apply' is used to define the boundaries of a concept. You will also encounter 'apply' in high-level discussions about philosophy and ethics. A philosopher might discuss how a moral rule 'applies' across different cultures. In professional settings, you might use 'apply' to describe the strategic use of resources: 'We need to apply our capital more efficiently.' This implies a thoughtful and calculated distribution. The word also appears in the context of 'applied' vs. 'theoretical' disciplines, and you should be able to discuss the merits of each. At this level, you should also be familiar with idioms and less common collocations, such as 'apply the torch to' (meaning to set fire to something, often metaphorically) or 'apply the screw' (meaning to put pressure on someone to make them do something). Your use of 'apply' should be natural, precise, and appropriate for the most formal academic or professional environments.

At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of 'apply' and can use it with the same nuance as a highly educated native speaker. You understand its role in creating precise, formal prose. In legal and constitutional law, you recognize 'apply' as a term of art, describing how superior courts 'apply' precedents to new cases. You can use the word to describe the most delicate of actions, such as 'applying a light touch' to a sensitive negotiation, or the most forceful, such as 'applying the full weight of the law.' You are comfortable with the word in all its morphological forms—application, applicability, applicant, applicable, applied—and can switch between them effortlessly to maintain the flow and tone of your writing. You might use 'apply' in metaphorical ways that are both creative and clear, such as 'applying the lessons of history to modern-day challenges.' In scientific or technical writing, you use 'apply' to describe the exact methodology used in an experiment, ensuring that the 'application' of variables is clearly documented. You also understand the historical development of the word from its Latin roots (applicare, meaning 'to join to') and how this core meaning still informs its diverse modern uses. At C2, 'apply' is not just a verb; it is a versatile tool that you use to connect ideas, actions, and consequences with absolute clarity and sophistication.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

apply in 30 Seconds

Apply means to formally ask for a job, a visa, or a place at a school by submitting a form or document.
It also describes the physical act of putting a substance like paint, cream, or glue onto a surface or object.
In a more abstract sense, it means that a rule, law, or idea is relevant to a specific person or situation.
Finally, 'to apply oneself' is a common expression that means to work very hard and focus your effort on a task.

The verb 'apply' is a multifaceted term that serves as a linguistic bridge between physical actions and abstract administrative processes. At its core, 'apply' involves the act of bringing things into contact—whether that be a physical substance onto a surface, a rule onto a situation, or a person’s credentials onto a job opening. In everyday life, you will encounter 'apply' most frequently in three distinct contexts: administrative requests, physical contact, and the implementation of rules or knowledge. When you seek a position at a company or a seat in a university, you 'apply' for it. This implies a formal process of submission, usually involving forms, resumes, and specific protocols. It is the act of putting yourself forward for consideration. In a more tactile sense, 'apply' refers to the distribution of a substance. Think of a morning routine where you apply moisturizer to your face, or a construction project where a worker applies a fresh coat of waterproof sealant to a basement wall. The word suggests a deliberate, even distribution of material. Finally, 'apply' is used in intellectual and legal contexts to describe the relevance of a law, a formula, or a theory to a specific case. If a discount 'applies' to your purchase, it means the rules of the promotion are relevant to what you are buying. This versatility makes 'apply' an essential word for learners to master, as it transitions seamlessly from the bathroom mirror to the corporate boardroom.

Administrative Context: This involves the formal submission of documents to request a benefit, a job, or a legal status. It requires the preposition 'for' when mentioning the goal (apply for a job) and 'to' when mentioning the recipient (apply to a company).

To be considered for the scholarship, you must apply before the end of the month.

Physical Context: This refers to the act of spreading, rubbing, or placing a substance onto a surface. It is commonly used in medicine, beauty, and manual labor.

The nurse told him to apply the ointment to the burn twice a day.

Beyond these common uses, 'apply' also carries a psychological meaning: 'to apply oneself.' This means to work hard and focus your full attention on a task. If a teacher says a student needs to 'apply himself,' they mean the student has potential but needs to exert more effort. This usage treats the person's mind or effort as the substance being 'applied' to the work. Furthermore, in the realm of physics and mechanics, 'apply' describes the exertion of force. When you apply the brakes in a car, you are physically forcing the brake pads against the rotors. In every instance, the word 'apply' carries the connotation of directed action. It is never a passive state; it is always the act of bringing one thing to bear upon another. Whether it is a theory being applied to a scientific problem or a sticker being applied to a notebook, the word implies a deliberate connection being made. Understanding this core concept of 'directed connection' will help you navigate the various definitions of the word without feeling overwhelmed by its different contexts.

The same rules apply to everyone, regardless of their position in the company.

Relevance Context: In this sense, 'apply' means to be relevant or applicable. It describes a relationship where a rule or statement is valid for a particular person or group.

Please apply the brakes slowly to avoid skidding on the icy road.

If you apply yourself to your studies, you will surely pass the exam.

Mastering the word 'apply' requires a keen understanding of prepositions, as the meaning of the verb shifts significantly depending on the word that follows it. The most common pairing is 'apply for,' which is used when you are seeking something formal, such as a job, a visa, a loan, or a place at a university. In these instances, 'apply' functions as an intransitive verb followed by a prepositional phrase. For example, 'She applied for a promotion' indicates her desire to obtain a higher position. Conversely, 'apply to' is used to designate the recipient of the application or the entity to which a rule pertains. You 'apply to' a company 'for' a job. This distinction is crucial for clear communication. If you say 'I applied the company,' it sounds as if you are physically putting the company onto something else, which is nonsensical. Another common pattern is 'apply something to something,' which is the transitive use of the verb. This is where you have an object (the thing being applied) and a target (the surface or situation). For instance, 'Apply the glue to the back of the photo' clearly defines the substance and the destination. In academic or professional writing, you might 'apply a methodology to a dataset,' meaning you are using a specific way of thinking to analyze information.

Transitive Usage (Object + To): Subject + Apply + Object (Substance/Rule) + To + Target. Example: 'The chef applied the glaze to the ham.'

You should apply the new policy to all future projects.

Intransitive Usage (For/To): Subject + Apply + For (Goal) / To (Recipient). Example: 'He applied to Harvard for his PhD.'

Does this discount apply to items already on sale?

The verb can also be used reflexively, as mentioned in the previous section. 'To apply oneself' is a fixed expression that always requires a reflexive pronoun (myself, yourself, himself, herself, ourselves, themselves). For example, 'If they apply themselves, they can finish the project by Friday.' This usage is somewhat formal and is often found in performance reviews or educational feedback. Furthermore, 'apply' can be used in the passive voice, particularly in technical or scientific contexts. 'The pressure is applied by a hydraulic pump' or 'The cream should be applied sparingly.' This shifts the focus from who is doing the action to the action itself. In legal and formal documents, you will often see the phrase 'as applied to,' which helps clarify how a specific rule relates to a specific set of circumstances. For instance, 'The First Amendment, as applied to this case, protects the journalist's right to keep sources confidential.' Understanding these structural patterns allows you to use 'apply' with precision across a wide range of topics, from basic daily tasks to complex legal arguments.

She applied herself diligently to learning the new software.

Passive Voice: Be + Applied + To. Example: 'Heat was applied to the metal rod until it glowed red.'

A steady force must be applied to the lever to open the heavy door.

The scientist applied the findings of the study to her own research.

The word 'apply' is ubiquitous, appearing in diverse environments from the mundane to the highly specialized. In a domestic setting, you will hear it most often in the bathroom or kitchen. Parents tell their children to 'apply sunscreen' before going to the beach, and cooking shows frequently instruct viewers to 'apply a thin layer of oil' to a pan. In these contexts, the word is synonymous with 'put on' or 'spread,' but it carries a slightly more formal or precise tone. Move into the professional world, and 'apply' becomes the language of career advancement. HR departments are constantly 'processing applications,' and career coaches advise clients on how to 'apply for' positions effectively. You will hear it in office meetings when discussing new strategies: 'How can we apply these marketing principles to our social media presence?' Here, it means to adapt or implement. In the legal and governmental spheres, 'apply' is a technical term. Police officers 'apply for' search warrants, and lawyers argue about whether a specific statute 'applies to' their client's situation. If you are traveling, you will hear it at embassies or border crossings where you must 'apply for a visa.' The word is also a staple of the educational system, where students 'apply to college' and teachers encourage them to 'apply what they have learned' in their exams.

Medical & Beauty: Found on product labels and in doctor's offices. Instructions like 'apply topically' or 'apply to clean skin' are standard.

The instructions say to apply the cream only to the affected area.

Career & Education: Used in job descriptions, university portals, and career advice. Phrases like 'apply online' or 'application deadline' are common.

You can apply for the internship through the company's website.

In the world of technology and software, 'apply' has a specific meaning related to making changes permanent. When you change settings on your computer or in an app, you often have to click an 'Apply' button. This tells the system to take the changes you have selected and put them into effect immediately. Similarly, in photo editing software like Photoshop, you 'apply a filter' to an image. This usage mirrors the physical act of putting a layer over something. In scientific research, 'applied science' is a major field of study. Unlike 'pure science,' which seeks knowledge for its own sake, 'applied science' looks for ways to 'apply' scientific knowledge to solve practical problems, like developing new medicines or engineering more efficient engines. Even in sports, a coach might tell a team to 'apply pressure' to the opponent, meaning to play aggressively and force them into making mistakes. Whether you are in a lab, a stadium, or a shopping mall, 'apply' is a word that describes the transition from theory or potential into action and reality. It is a word of implementation and connection.

Click 'OK' to apply the changes to your system settings.

Legal & Formal: Used in contracts and official documents. 'Terms and conditions apply' is a phrase seen in almost every advertisement.

The new tax laws will apply to all small businesses starting next year.

The coach told the defense to apply more pressure on the quarterback.

One of the most frequent errors learners make with 'apply' involves the omission of the preposition 'for' when discussing job or school applications. Because many other languages use a single verb for this action without a preposition, students often say 'I applied a job' or 'She applied the university.' In English, this is incorrect and confusing, as 'apply a job' would literally mean putting a job onto a surface. Always remember: you apply *for* a position and you apply *to* an institution. Another common pitfall is the confusion between 'apply' and 'reply.' While they sound somewhat similar, their meanings are entirely different. 'Reply' means to answer a message, while 'apply' means to request something or put something on. Saying 'I applied to your email' when you mean you answered it is a common slip-up. Additionally, learners sometimes struggle with the reflexive use 'apply oneself.' They might say 'He applied to the work' instead of 'He applied himself to the work.' The reflexive pronoun is essential here to convey the meaning of working hard. Another subtle mistake occurs in the context of relevance. Students might say 'This rule applies on you' instead of 'This rule applies to you.' The preposition 'to' is the standard choice for indicating who or what a rule affects.

Preposition Errors: Incorrect: 'I applied the visa.' Correct: 'I applied for the visa.' Incorrect: 'It applies on everyone.' Correct: 'It applies to everyone.'

Many students forget to apply for financial aid before the deadline.

Confusion with 'Reply': Incorrect: 'I need to apply to his text message.' Correct: 'I need to reply to his text message.'

You must apply yourself if you want to master a new language.

In the physical sense, a common mistake is using 'apply' for things that aren't spreadable. You 'apply' cream, paint, or glue, but you 'put on' a shirt or 'wear' a hat. You wouldn't 'apply a coat' unless you were talking about a coat of paint. Furthermore, some learners use 'apply' as a noun, saying 'I sent my apply.' The noun form is 'application.' For example, 'I sent my application yesterday.' Using the verb as a noun is a grammatical error that can make your English sound very unnatural. Another point of confusion is the difference between 'apply' and 'enforce.' A rule 'applies' to you (it is relevant), but the police 'enforce' the rule (they make sure you follow it). If you say 'The police applied the law,' it sounds like they are using the law as a tool, which is possible, but 'enforced' is usually the intended meaning when talking about punishment or compliance. Finally, be careful with the word 'applicable.' It is the adjective form, and while it's related, it's used differently: 'This rule is not applicable here' vs 'This rule does not apply here.' Both are correct, but they require different sentence structures.

She submitted her application for the manager position last week.

Noun vs Verb: Incorrect: 'My apply was rejected.' Correct: 'My application was rejected.'

The new safety regulations apply to all employees in the factory.

He decided to apply for a loan to start his own business.

Because 'apply' has so many meanings, there are several synonyms that can be used depending on the context. If you are talking about the physical act of putting something on a surface, 'spread,' 'rub,' 'smear,' or 'put on' are excellent alternatives. 'Spread' suggests a wider area, like spreading butter on bread or spreading paint on a wall. 'Rub' implies friction, such as rubbing lotion into your skin. 'Smear' often has a negative connotation, suggesting a messy or careless application. In administrative contexts, 'request,' 'seek,' 'petition,' or 'put in for' can be used. 'Request' is a general term for asking for something. 'Seek' is more formal and often used in job hunting ('seeking employment'). 'Petition' is very formal and usually involves a legal or official request to a governing body. 'Put in for' is a common phrasal verb used in workplaces, such as 'putting in for a vacation' or 'putting in for a transfer.' When 'apply' means to use a rule or idea, you might use 'implement,' 'utilize,' 'employ,' or 'exercise.' 'Implement' is common in business and government ('implementing a new policy'). 'Utilize' is a more formal way of saying 'use.' 'Exercise' is often used with rights or authority ('exercising your right to remain silent').

Physical Synonyms: 'Spread' (wider area), 'Rub' (with friction), 'Put on' (general/informal), 'Smear' (messy).

Instead of applying the butter, he decided to spread it evenly across the toast.

Administrative Synonyms: 'Request' (general), 'Petition' (formal/legal), 'Seek' (formal), 'Put in for' (informal/workplace).

She decided to petition the court for a restraining order.

In the context of relevance, 'pertain to,' 'relate to,' or 'be relevant to' are good substitutes. 'Pertain to' is quite formal and often used in legal or academic writing ('the facts pertaining to the case'). 'Relate to' is more common in general conversation. When talking about effort, 'dedicate oneself' or 'commit oneself' are stronger versions of 'apply oneself.' For example, 'She dedicated herself to her art' implies a deeper level of passion than 'She applied herself to her art.' In the context of force, 'exert' is the most common synonym. You 'exert pressure' or 'exert influence.' 'Apply' is often used for the physical mechanism (apply the brakes), while 'exert' is used for the force itself. Understanding these nuances helps you choose the most precise word for your meaning. For instance, you wouldn't 'smear' a job application, and you wouldn't 'petition' sunscreen onto your arm. Each synonym has its own specific 'flavor' and set of rules for usage, and learning them will greatly enrich your vocabulary and make your English sound more sophisticated and natural.

The rules pertain only to those living within the city limits.

Intellectual/Rule Synonyms: 'Implement' (put into effect), 'Utilize' (use effectively), 'Exercise' (use a right), 'Employ' (use a method).

The company will implement the new security measures next month.

He dedicated himself entirely to finishing his first novel.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The word 'apply' is a cousin of the word 'reply'. While 'apply' means to fold 'to' (ad-plicare), 'reply' means to fold 'back' (re-plicare). This is why they sound so similar!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /əˈplaɪ/

US /əˈplaɪ/

The stress is on the second syllable: ap-PLY.

Rhymes With

Reply Supply Comply July Sky My Fly Tie

Common Errors

Pronouncing the 'a' as a strong 'ah' sound like in 'apple'.
Putting the stress on the first syllable (AP-ply).
Confusing the pronunciation with 'reply'.
Not making the 'y' sound long enough at the end.
Swallowing the 'p' sound.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word is common and usually easy to understand in context.

Writing 3/5

Choosing the correct preposition (for vs to) can be tricky for learners.

Speaking 2/5

The pronunciation is straightforward once the stress is learned.

Listening 2/5

Easily recognized in common phrases like 'apply for a job'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

Job Form Put Rule Use

Learn Next

Application Applicant Applicable Implement Submit

Advanced

Utilize Pertain Exert Petition Signatory

Grammar to Know

Prepositional Verbs

Apply for (object of desire), Apply to (recipient/target).

Reflexive Pronouns

He applied himself (myself, yourself, etc.) to the task.

Passive Voice

The ointment should be applied (be + past participle) twice daily.

Transitive vs. Intransitive

Transitive: Apply the paint. Intransitive: I will apply tomorrow.

Stative use of 'Apply'

When 'apply' means 'to be relevant', it functions like a stative verb: 'This rule applies to you.'

Examples by Level

I want to apply for a job.

Ich möchte mich um eine Stelle bewerben.

Use 'apply for' + the thing you want.

She applied to a good school.

Sie hat sich an einer guten Schule beworben.

Use 'apply to' + the place.

Please apply the glue here.

Bitte trage den Kleber hier auf.

Here, 'apply' means to put on a surface.

You can apply online.

Du kannst dich online bewerben.

'Online' is an adverb here.

Did you apply for the visa?

Hast du das Visum beantragt?

Question form using 'did'.

He needs to apply for a passport.

Er muss einen Reisepass beantragen.

'Needs to' + base verb 'apply'.

They apply paint to the wall.

Sie tragen Farbe auf die Wand auf.

Subject + verb + object + to + target.

I will apply tomorrow.

Ich werde mich morgen bewerben.

Future tense with 'will'.

Apply the cream to your skin twice a day.

Tragen Sie die Creme zweimal täglich auf Ihre Haut auf.

Imperative form for instructions.

This rule does not apply to you.

Diese Regel gilt nicht für dich.

'Apply to' means 'to be relevant to'.

He applied for a credit card at the bank.

Er hat bei der Bank eine Kreditkarte beantragt.

Past tense 'applied'.

She is applying for a new position.

Sie bewirbt sich um eine neue Stelle.

Present continuous 'is applying'.

You should apply sunscreen before swimming.

Du solltest vor dem Schwimmen Sonnencreme auftragen.

Modal verb 'should' + 'apply'.

The discount applies to all members.

Der Rabatt gilt für alle Mitglieder.

Present simple for a general fact.

They applied to the city for a permit.

Sie haben bei der Stadt eine Genehmigung beantragt.

Apply to (who) for (what).

Don't apply too much pressure.

Übe nicht zu viel Druck aus.

Negative imperative.

You need to apply yourself to your work.

Du musst dich bei deiner Arbeit mehr anstrengen.

Reflexive use: 'apply oneself to'.

We can apply these methods to our research.

Wir können diese Methoden auf unsere Forschung anwenden.

Apply (something) to (something).

The law applies to everyone in the country.

Das Gesetz gilt für jeden im Land.

Stating a general principle.

She applied for a grant to study abroad.

Sie hat ein Stipendium für ein Auslandsstudium beantragt.

Using 'grant' as the object of 'for'.

Heat must be applied to the mixture.

Die Mischung muss erhitzt werden.

Passive voice: 'must be applied'.

Does this theory apply in this case?

Gilt diese Theorie in diesem Fall?

Interrogative form.

He applied his knowledge to solve the problem.

Er nutzte sein Wissen, um das Problem zu lösen.

Using 'apply' as 'use effectively'.

The company applied for bankruptcy protection.

Das Unternehmen hat Insolvenzschutz beantragt.

Formal administrative use.

The same principles apply to both situations.

Die gleichen Prinzipien gelten für beide Situationen.

Comparing two contexts.

He failed because he didn't apply himself.

Er ist gescheitert, weil er sich nicht genug angestrengt hat.

Reflexive use in the negative past.

Apply the brakes gently on wet roads.

Betätigen Sie die Bremsen auf nassen Straßen vorsichtig.

Technical instruction with an adverb.

The researcher applied a new algorithm to the data.

Der Forscher wandte einen neuen Algorithmus auf die Daten an.

Transitive use in a scientific context.

The regulations apply only to large corporations.

Die Vorschriften gelten nur für Großunternehmen.

Restricting the scope of the verb.

She applied for a patent for her invention.

Sie hat ein Patent für ihre Erfindung angemeldet.

Legal/Administrative use.

Pressure was applied to the wound to stop the bleeding.

Auf die Wunde wurde Druck ausgeübt, um die Blutung zu stoppen.

Passive voice in a medical context.

How do these findings apply to the real world?

Wie lassen sich diese Erkenntnisse auf die reale Welt übertragen?

Abstract application of research.

The court must decide how the law applies here.

Das Gericht muss entscheiden, wie das Gesetz hier anzuwenden ist.

Legal interpretation of the verb.

The label 'genius' is often applied too loosely.

Die Bezeichnung 'Genie' wird oft zu leichtfertig verwendet.

Passive voice with an adverb of manner.

He applied a critical lens to the historical text.

Er betrachtete den historischen Text aus einer kritischen Perspektive.

Metaphorical use in literary criticism.

The policy was applied inconsistently across departments.

Die Richtlinie wurde in den einzelnen Abteilungen uneinheitlich angewandt.

Describing the quality of implementation.

You must apply for a permit well in advance.

Sie müssen die Genehmigung rechtzeitig im Voraus beantragen.

Formal requirement with a time expression.

The theory of relativity applies to large-scale structures.

Die Relativitätstheorie gilt für großräumige Strukturen.

Scientific fact-stating.

She applied her skills to the benefit of the community.

Sie setzte ihre Fähigkeiten zum Wohle der Gemeinschaft ein.

Altruistic use of the verb.

The economic sanctions were applied immediately.

Die Wirtschaftssanktionen wurden sofort verhängt.

Political/Economic context.

The judicious application of force was necessary.

Die umsichtige Anwendung von Gewalt war notwendig.

Using the noun form 'application' in a complex sentence.

These constraints apply regardless of the outcome.

Diese Einschränkungen gelten unabhängig vom Ergebnis.

Using 'regardless of' to show absolute relevance.

The term 'post-modern' is difficult to apply precisely.

Der Begriff 'postmodern' ist schwer präzise anzuwenden.

Discussing the difficulty of categorization.

He applied the full weight of his authority to the matter.

Er setzte sein ganzes Gewicht und seine ganze Autorität in dieser Angelegenheit ein.

Idiomatic use for exerting influence.

The logic applied here is fundamentally flawed.

Die hier angewandte Logik ist grundlegend fehlerhaft.

Past participle used as an adjective.

The treaty applies to all signatory nations.

Der Vertrag gilt für alle Unterzeichnerstaaten.

International law context.

She applied herself with a ferocity that surprised everyone.

Sie setzte sich mit einer Heftigkeit ein, die alle überraschte.

Reflexive use with an intense prepositional phrase.

The rules as applied to this specific case are clear.

Die Regeln, wie sie auf diesen speziellen Fall angewandt werden, sind klar.

Using 'as applied to' for clarification.

Synonyms

request use implement spread utilize enroll

Antonyms

withdraw ignore remove

Common Collocations

Apply for a job

Apply to university

Apply the brakes

Apply pressure

Apply cream

Apply a rule

Apply oneself

Apply for a visa

Apply a discount

Apply logic

Common Phrases

Terms and conditions apply

— Used in advertisements to say there are specific rules you must follow. It means the offer is not unconditional.

Get a free phone when you sign up for a two-year contract. Terms and conditions apply.

Apply in person

— To go to a place physically to ask for a job or submit a form. It means you cannot do it online or by phone.

The restaurant is hiring; please apply in person between 2 PM and 4 PM.

Apply for a grant

— To ask for a sum of money given by an organization for a specific purpose. It is a formal request for funding.

The scientist applied for a grant to continue her research on cancer.

Apply a coat of paint

— To put one layer of paint on a surface. It describes a single stage of the painting process.

After the first layer dries, you should apply a second coat of paint.

Apply for a loan

— To ask a bank or financial institution to borrow money. It involves a formal credit check.

They applied for a loan to help pay for their new house.

Apply for a patent

— To request legal protection for an invention. It ensures no one else can copy your idea.

The inventor applied for a patent to protect his new engine design.

Apply a filter

— To use a software tool to change the appearance of a photo. It is common in social media apps.

She applied a black-and-white filter to the photo to make it look old.

Apply for membership

— To ask to join a club, organization, or group. It usually requires a form and sometimes a fee.

I decided to apply for membership at the local gym.

Apply for a permit

— To ask for official permission to do something, like build a house or park a car. It is a legal requirement.

You need to apply for a permit before you can start building the extension.

Apply for a scholarship

— To ask for financial aid for education based on merit or need. It is a competitive process.

He is applying for a scholarship to help pay for his university tuition.

Often Confused With

apply vs Reply

Reply means to answer; apply means to request or put on. They sound similar but have no shared meaning.

apply vs Supply

Supply means to provide something; apply means to use or request something. 'I will supply the paint' vs 'I will apply the paint'.

apply vs Comply

Comply means to follow a rule; apply means the rule is relevant to you. 'You must comply with the rules that apply to you'.

Idioms & Expressions

"Apply the screw"

— To put pressure on someone to force them to do something. It is often used in negotiations or difficult situations.

The bank started to apply the screw when he missed his third payment.

Informal

"Apply the torch to"

— To set fire to something, or metaphorically, to destroy something completely. It is a very strong expression.

The rebels applied the torch to the government buildings.

Literary

"Apply a light touch"

— To handle a situation with delicacy and without using too much force or authority. It suggests a gentle approach.

The manager applied a light touch to the dispute between the two employees.

Professional

"Apply the brakes"

— Metaphorically, to slow down or stop a process that is moving too fast. It is used in business and politics.

The government decided to apply the brakes on spending to reduce the deficit.

Neutral

"Apply yourself"

— To work hard and focus your attention on something. It is a very common idiom in education.

You could be the top of the class if you would just apply yourself.

Neutral

"Apply a double standard"

— To use different sets of rules for different people in the same situation. It is a criticism of unfairness.

The company was accused of applying a double standard when it came to promotions.

Neutral

"Apply the finishing touches"

— To complete the final small details of a project or piece of work. it means the work is almost done.

The artist is applying the finishing touches to her latest painting.

Neutral

"Apply the law of the jungle"

— To act in a way where only the strongest or most selfish survive, without regard for rules or morality.

In that unregulated market, the law of the jungle seems to apply.

Informal

"Apply a band-aid solution"

— To provide a quick, temporary fix for a problem instead of solving the underlying cause. It is a negative expression.

Fixing the pothole is just applying a band-aid solution to the crumbling road.

Informal

"Apply the acid test"

— To use a definitive test to prove the value or truth of something. It comes from testing gold with acid.

The first big game will be the acid test for the new coach.

Neutral

Easily Confused

apply vs Application

It's the noun form of 'apply'.

Apply is the action (verb); application is the document or the process (noun).

I will apply (verb) today by sending my application (noun).

apply vs Applicable

It's the adjective form.

Apply is the verb; applicable describes something that can be applied or is relevant.

The rule does not apply (verb) because it is not applicable (adjective) here.

apply vs Applicant

It refers to a person.

Apply is the action; applicant is the person who is doing the applying.

Every applicant (person) must apply (action) before Friday.

apply vs Appliance

It sounds like 'application'.

An appliance is a machine (like a toaster); an application is a request or a use of something.

I used a kitchen appliance to make toast, but I sent a job application to the bakery.

apply vs Applied

It's the past tense and an adjective.

Applied can be the past action or describe a practical branch of study.

He applied (past verb) for the job in applied (adjective) mathematics.

Sentence Patterns

I want to apply for [job].

I want to apply for a teaching job.

Apply [substance] to [surface].

Apply the lotion to your hands.

The [rule] applies to [person/group].

The law applies to all citizens.

You must apply yourself to [task].

You must apply yourself to your homework.

[Something] was applied to [something].

Heat was applied to the chemical mixture.

Apply [concept] to [situation].

We should apply this logic to our marketing strategy.

As applied to [context], [statement].

As applied to this case, the rule is very clear.

The judicious application of [force/authority].

The judicious application of pressure led to a compromise.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in both spoken and written English.

Common Mistakes

I applied a job. → I applied for a job.
You must use 'for' when you are seeking a position. Without 'for', it sounds like you are putting the job onto a surface.
The rule applies on you. → The rule applies to you.
When 'apply' means relevance, the correct preposition is always 'to'.
I need to apply his email. → I need to reply to his email.
'Apply' and 'reply' sound similar but have different meanings. You answer (reply to) an email.
He applied to the work. → He applied himself to the work.
When you want to say someone is working hard, you must use the reflexive pronoun (himself, myself, etc.).
My apply was successful. → My application was successful.
'Apply' is a verb. You need the noun form 'application' here.

Tips

Preposition Power

Always pair 'apply' with 'for' when you are seeking something. This is the most common mistake for learners.

Noun Form

Remember that the noun is 'application'. Don't say 'I sent my apply'. Say 'I sent my application'.

Stress it Right

The stress is on the second syllable: ap-PLY. Practice saying it with a short 'a' and a long 'y'.

Be Precise

In professional writing, use 'apply' instead of 'use' when talking about theories or rules. It sounds more academic.

Physical Contact

When using 'apply' for substances, think of 'spreading' or 'rubbing'. It implies contact with a surface.

Apply Yourself

Use this phrase in performance reviews or to encourage friends. It's a very common and useful expression.

Check the Preposition

If you see 'apply to', look for a person, place, or rule. If you see 'apply for', look for a job or a benefit.

Commercial Cues

Listen for 'apply' in ads. It's almost always followed by 'to' or used in 'terms and conditions apply'.

Word Family

Learn 'applicant' and 'application' at the same time. They are used together very frequently.

Rhyme Time

Remember that 'apply' rhymes with 'reply' and 'supply'. This can help you remember the sound.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'APPLY' as 'A Person Putting Layers Yes'. This helps you remember the physical sense of putting layers on, and the 'Person' part reminds you of applying for a job.

Visual Association

Imagine a person holding a 'Job Application' form in one hand and a paintbrush in the other, painting the word 'APPLY' on a wall. This combines the two main meanings.

Word Web

Job Cream Rule Paint Effort Form University Pressure

Challenge

Try to use the word 'apply' in three different sentences today: one about a job, one about a physical substance, and one about a rule.

Word Origin

The word 'apply' comes from the Old French word 'aplier', which means 'to join' or 'to attach'. This French word originated from the Latin word 'applicare'. In Latin, 'ad' means 'to' and 'plicare' means 'to fold'. So, the original sense was 'to fold one thing onto another'.

Original meaning: To join, attach, or fold something onto something else.

Indo-European (Latin branch via French)

Cultural Context

Be aware that in some cultures, 'applying' for a job might be done more through personal connections than formal applications. However, in English-speaking professional environments, the formal application is standard.

In the US and UK, 'applying for a job' usually requires a CV or Resume and a Cover Letter. The process is almost entirely digital now.

The phrase 'Terms and Conditions Apply' is famously used in almost every commercial. The book 'Applied Cryptography' by Bruce Schneier is a classic in computer science. The concept of 'Applied Ethics' is a major branch of modern philosophy.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Job Hunting

Apply for a position
Online application
Submit an application
Application deadline

Skincare/Medicine

Apply topically
Apply to affected area
Apply a thin layer
Reapply as needed

Law and Rules

The law applies to
Terms and conditions apply
Apply a penalty
Applicable regulations

Education

Apply to college
Apply for a scholarship
Apply what you learned
Apply yourself to your studies

DIY/Construction

Apply a coat of primer
Apply glue evenly
Apply pressure to the joint
Apply sealant

Conversation Starters

"Have you ever applied for a job and not heard back for a long time?"

"Which universities are you planning to apply to next year?"

"Do you think these new office rules should apply to everyone, including the boss?"

"What is the most difficult thing you have ever had to apply yourself to?"

"How often do you apply sunscreen when you go to the beach?"

Journal Prompts

Write about a time you applied for something and were successful. How did you feel?

Describe a skill you have learned and how you apply it in your daily life.

Do you find it easy or difficult to apply yourself to tasks you don't enjoy? Why?

If you could apply for any job in the world, regardless of your experience, what would it be?

Think of a rule in your country that you think should not apply to certain people. Explain your reasoning.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It depends on what follows. Use 'apply for' for the thing you want (a job, a visa). Use 'apply to' for the place or person you are asking (a company, a university). Example: 'I applied to Google for a job.'

No, we don't 'apply' clothes. We 'put on' or 'wear' clothes. 'Apply' is used for substances like cream, paint, or glue that you spread on a surface.

It means to work very hard and focus your full attention on a task. It is often used by teachers or parents to encourage students to do their best. Example: 'If you apply yourself, you can pass the test.'

'Use' is a general word. 'Apply' is more specific and often implies using a rule, a method, or a substance in a deliberate way. You 'use' a hammer, but you 'apply' a theory to a problem.

No. It can be intransitive, especially when talking about jobs. 'I'm going to apply tomorrow' is a complete and correct sentence.

It means there are specific rules or restrictions that you must follow to get the deal or offer being advertised. It's a way for companies to protect themselves legally.

You use 'be' + 'applied'. For example, 'The cream should be applied to the skin.' This is common in instructions where the person doing the action isn't the focus.

Yes. 'This rule applies to everyone' means the rule is relevant to everyone. In this sense, it is usually followed by the preposition 'to'.

It can be both. 'Apply for a job' is neutral/standard. 'Apply a methodology' is formal. 'Apply some glue' is neutral. It's a very versatile word.

An applicant is a person who is applying for something, like a job or a place at a university. If you apply for a job, you are an applicant.