What does apply mean?
Apply is one of the most versatile verbs in English, with several distinct but related senses. In its most familiar use, it means to make a formal request for something — a job, a place at a university, a license, or permission — usually through an application process. It also means to put something into practical effect: a scientist applies a theory, a negotiator applies pressure, and a rule applies when it governs a particular situation. In everyday physical contexts, apply describes bringing something into contact with a surface, as when applying paint, sunscreen, or a bandage. The word carries a neutral, functional tone and appears constantly in professional, academic, and administrative language. Derived from Latin 'applicare,' meaning to attach or fold toward, it entered English via Old French and has since generated a rich family of related terms including application, applicant, and applied. Its flexibility makes it essential vocabulary for anyone navigating education, employment, law, or science.
verbTo put something into practical use or operation, or to make a formal request for something such as a job or admission.
- To make a formal request, especially in writing, for a job, place at a school, permission, or other opportunity.
- To put something into practical use, effect, or operation (e.g. applying a theory, applying pressure).
- To bring something into physical contact with a surface (e.g. applying paint, ointment, or a bandage).
- To be relevant or pertinent to someone or something ('this rule applies to all employees').
"She decided to apply for the position as soon as it was posted."
"He plans to apply to three universities before the January deadline."
"The doctor applied a thin layer of ointment to the wound."
Every job application you've ever sent traces back to one Latin word — 'applicare' — meaning literally 'to fold toward' or 'attach to.'
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of apply
Apply derives from the Latin verb 'applicare,' meaning to attach, fasten, or fold toward something. The word passed into English through Old French 'aplier' during the medieval period, becoming established by the late Middle Ages. Its core sense of bringing one thing into contact with another gradually expanded to include putting ideas into practice and making formal requests. Cognates from the same Latin root include application, applicable, and comply.
Related word forms
How apply is actually used
Apply is standard and neutral in register across formal and informal contexts. When used of requests, it typically takes 'for' (apply for a job) or 'to' (apply to a university); when used of relevance, it takes 'to' as well. The verb is highly versatile, spanning administrative, scientific, medical, and everyday contexts.
Easily confused with apply
To apply is to put something to use or make a request, while to imply is to suggest or hint at something indirectly without stating it outright.