Apply

/əˈplaɪ/

Meaning & Definition

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

To use or implement something informally.
I'm gonna apply some of those hacks I learned online.
To throw oneself into an activity or hobby.
He really applied hard to his new gaming strategy.