FluencyCraft

apply

"Apply" is a very useful and common English verb with several important meanings. You will encounter it in everyday situations, at school, at work, and in formal writing. Here are the most common senses.

1verbput something on a surface

When you physically place or spread something onto something else, you are applying it. Think of putting sunscreen on your skin or paint on a wall — that physical action of putting one thing onto another is what 'apply' means here.

everyday language, medicine, beauty · Modern, widely used

Apply a thin layer of cream to the affected area twice a day.

She carefully applied red paint to the canvas.

The dentist applied a special gel to my teeth before the treatment.

2verbmake a formal request

When you officially ask for something — like a job, a university place, or a visa — you apply for it. You usually fill out a form or write a letter as part of this process.

work, education, administration · Modern, widely used

I applied for a job at the marketing company last week.

She is planning to apply to three universities this year.

You need to apply for a visa before you travel to that country.

3verbbe relevant or relate to something

When a rule, law, or idea applies to a situation or person, it means it is relevant — it affects them or connects to them. For example, a discount might only apply to students, meaning only students can use it.

law, everyday language, business · Modern, widely used

This rule applies to all students, not just beginners.

The new tax law does not apply to small businesses.

These instructions apply only if you are using the latest version of the software.

4verbuse knowledge or a skill in practice

When you take something you have learned — a theory, a skill, or an idea — and use it in a real situation, you are applying it. It is the bridge between knowing something and actually using it.

education, science, professional life · Modern, widely used

The students were asked to apply the formula to solve the problem.

It is important to apply what you learn in class to real-life situations.

He applied his engineering knowledge to design a more efficient system.

5verbfigurativework hard and focus (apply yourself)

The phrase 'apply yourself' means to put in serious effort and concentration toward something. It is often used to encourage someone to work harder or stay focused.

education, everyday language · Modern, widely used · figurative

If you apply yourself, you can pass this exam easily.

Her teacher told her she had great potential but needed to apply herself more.

He finally applied himself to learning the language and made rapid progress.

Content generated by AI — may contain inaccuracies