Definition

1. Noun:
   • A formal request: A written or spoken request for something, such as a job, admission to a school, or permission.
   • The act of putting something to use: The action of using a method, idea, law, etc., in a particular situation.
   • Sustained effort or diligence: The action of working hard and with careful attention over a period of time.
   • A software program: A computer program designed to perform a specific task or group of tasks for the user.
   • The act of putting something on a surface: The action of spreading or rubbing a substance onto something.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Formal Request):
  • Please submit your application for the scholarship by Friday.
  • Her college application was very impressive.
• Noun (Putting to Use):
  • The application of this theory to real-world problems is challenging.
  • Strict application of the rules is required.
• Noun (Sustained Effort):
  • Success in this field requires hard work and serious application.
• Noun (Software Program):
  • I downloaded a new fitness tracking application on my phone.
  • This word processing application is very user-friendly.
• Noun (Putting on a Surface):
  • Two applications of paint are necessary for a good finish.
  • For external use only; follow the directions for application.

Advanced Usage

• "In application to": When used or applied to something specific.
  • The principle is sound, but its application to this case is flawed.
• "On application": Available upon request.
  • Further details are available on application.

Variants and Related Words

• Applicant (n): A person who makes a formal request, especially for a job.
  • All applicants must have a university degree.
• Applicable (adj): Relevant or appropriate.
  • The same rules are applicable to everyone.
• Apply (v): The verb form from which "application" is derived.
  • You must apply for a visa.
  • You should apply the cream gently.

Synonyms

• Request: An act of asking politely or formally for something.
• Use: The action of using something.
• Diligence: Careful and persistent work or effort.
• Program: A set of coded instructions for a computer.

Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs from 'Apply')

• Apply for: To make a formal request for something.
  • He decided to apply for the managerial position.
• Apply to: To be relevant to; to make a request to a specific person or institution.
  • This law applies to all citizens.
  • She applied to three different universities.
• Apply yourself: To work hard and with concentration.
  • If you apply yourself, you will pass the exam.

Related Idioms

• A practical application: A real-world use of a theory or idea.
  • The research focuses on finding a practical application for the new material.

Noun

1. the action of putting something into operation
   • the application of maximum thrust
   • massage has far-reaching medical applications
   • the application of indexes to tables of data
2. a diligent effort
   • it is a job requiring serious application
3. liquid preparation having a soothing or antiseptic or medicinal action when applied to the skin
   • a lotion for dry skin
4. a program that gives a computer instructions that provide the user with tools to accomplish a task
   • he has tried several different word processing applications
5. the work of applying something;
   • the doctor prescribed a topical application of iodine
   • a complete bleach requires several applications
   • the surface was ready for a coating of paint
6. a verbal or written request for assistance or employment or admission to a school
   • December 31 is the deadline for applications
7. the act of bringing something to bear; using it for a particular purpose
   • he advocated the application of statistics to the problem
   • a novel application of electronics to medical diagnosis