make a formal application or request, put or spread (a substance) on a surface, be applicable or relevant

apply oneself, apply for, apply to

Formal and Informal Expressions of apply

In different contexts, you can replace 'apply' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'request, utilize' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'put on, use' is a commonplace synonym.

apply: Explore its Definition & Usage

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apply Definition

1make a formal application or request
2put or spread (a substance) on a surface
3be applicable or relevant

Using apply: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "apply" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
I applied for a job at the new company.
Example
She applied for a scholarship to study abroad.
Example
He applied for a loan to start his business.
Example
The nurse applied the ointment to the wound.
Example
He applied the paint to the canvas with a brush.
Example
These rules do not apply to everyone.
Example
The same principle applies to this situation as well.

apply Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for apply

Antonyms for apply

Phrases with apply

apply oneself
devote oneself to a particular task or course of study
Example
If you apply yourself, you can pass the exam.
apply for
make a formal request for something
Example
He applied for a visa to visit his family in another country.
apply to
be relevant or applicable to
Example
These rules apply to all employees.

Origins of apply

from Old French 'apliquer', from Latin 'applicare', from 'ad-' (to) + 'plicare' (fold)

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Summary: apply in Brief

To 'apply' [əˈplaɪ] means to make a formal request or put/spread a substance on a surface. It can also mean to be relevant or applicable. Examples include 'I applied for a job at the new company,' and 'The nurse applied the ointment to the wound.' Phrases like 'apply oneself' and 'apply for' use 'apply' to denote devoting oneself to a task or making a formal request, respectively.