Meaning & Definition of word "Apply"

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    Apply

    /əˈplaɪ/

    verb:

    • 1. To make a formal request or application for something (such as a job or admission).
      • Example: She decided to apply for the graduate program at the university.
    • 2. To put to use, especially for a particular purpose.
      • Example: You need to apply your knowledge of mathematics to solve these problems.
    • 3. To bring a rule, principle, or method into operation or effect.
      • Example: The teacher helped students learn how to apply the formula in real-life situations.
    • 4. To put pressure or effort on someone or something.
      • Example: The engineers need to apply more force to lift the structure.
    • 5. To have relevance or validity in a certain context.
      • Example: These guidelines apply to all employees of the company.

    Etymology

    Middle French 'applier', from Latin 'applicare', meaning 'to attach or join'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    apply for:

    To make a formal request for something (like a job or permission).

    apply oneself:

    To put in effort or dedication towards a task or study.

    apply pressure:

    To exert influence or force to achieve a result.

    Related Words

    application:

    The act of applying or a formal request, often in written form.

    applicant:

    A person who applies for something, typically a job or admission.

    applicable:

    Relevant or appropriate to a particular situation.

    Slang Meanings of apply

    Meaning: To use or implement something informally.

    Example Sentence: I'm gonna apply some of those hacks I learned online.

    Meaning: To throw oneself into an activity or hobby.

    Example Sentence: He really applied hard to his new gaming strategy.