Meaning & Definition of word "Apply"

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.