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Definitions

apply

[uh-plahy] / əˈplaɪ /
VERB
put into use
Synonyms
STRONGEST
administer employ exercise handle implement practice
STRONG
assign engage execute exploit utilize
WEAK
bring into play bring to bear
Antonyms
STRONGEST
cease halt ignore mismanage misuse neglect stop
VERB
be appropriate, relevant
Synonyms
STRONGEST
affect connect involve pertain refer relate
STRONG
allude appertain concern fit regard suit touch
WEAK
be applicable be pertinent bear upon
VERB
put substance on another
Synonyms
STRONGEST
administer cover spread
STRONG
affix anoint bestow fasten join massage paint place rub smear touch
WEAK
lay on put on
Antonyms
STRONG
detach loosen
VERB
ask, request
Synonyms
STRONGEST
appeal claim demand
STRONG
inquire petition requisition solicit sue
WEAK
put in put in for
Antonyms
STRONGEST
deny disclaim
STRONG
answer
VERB
work hard
Synonyms
STRONGEST
address commit devote give study try
STRONG
bend concentrate dedicate dig direct grind hustle persevere plug scratch sweat throw turn
WEAK
be diligent be industrious bear down buckle down give all one's got give best shot give old college try hammer away hit the ball knuckle down make effort peg away pour it on pull out all stops
Antonyms
STRONGEST
ignore keep

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The brain remains the most energy-efficient computing system known, and scientists hope to apply its principles to modern technology.

From Science Daily • Apr. 18, 2026

A trio of TV shows feature male characters in a world where the old rules for masculinity no longer apply.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

But despite his wish to serve with the armed forces in the UK, he has so far been unable to apply.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2026

They assume, by the way, that those limits would apply only to those who start claiming at the so-called full retirement age of 67.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 16, 2026

These curious words are from the poem called “To a Mouse,” but the sentiment does not apply solely to rodents, or to wigs, for that matter.

From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood

Vocabulary lists containing apply

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"Diary of a Wimpy Kid" by Jeff Kinney

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Word Generation Science - Energy

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!