1 [no obj] : to ask formally for something (such as a job, admission to a school, a loan, etc.) usually in writing
▪ For further information, apply to the address below. ▪ I applied in writing to several different companies. ▪ You must have a high school diploma for this job. High school dropouts need not apply. — often + for ▪ I applied for several jobs and was offered one. ▪ Anyone can apply for membership. ▪ We applied to the bank for a loan. ▪ To apply for our credit card, just fill out this form and send it to us. ▪ Many high school students have begun applying for college. [=asking to be accepted as students at colleges or universities by filling out and sending applications] — sometimes followed by to + verb ▪ Anyone can apply to become a member. 2 [+ obj] : to put or spread (something) on a surface, a part of the body, etc.
▪ After applying a thin layer of paint to the wall and letting it dry, apply another coat. ▪ We applied the ointment to the cut. ▪ I washed my face and applied fresh makeup. ▪ Fertilizer was applied to the lawn every two weeks. 3 [+ obj] : to cause (force, pressure, etc.) to have an effect or to be felt
▪ He was able to stop the bleeding by applying pressure to the cut. [=by pressing on/against the cut] ▪ He knows how to apply [=use, exert] pressure to get what he wants. ▪ The police should have been able to deal with the situation without applying [=using] force. 4 [+ obj] : to use (an idea, method, law, etc.) in a particular situation
▪ Try to solve the math problems by applying the formulas/methods that we learned in class. ▪ They applied a new technique to solve an old problem. ▪ We can handle these problems effectively if we apply the lessons learned from past experiences. ▪ They apply what they learned in school to their everyday lives. ▪ The law has not been applied fairly. [=has not been used in a fair way] 5 [+ obj] : to cause (the brakes of a vehicle) to work
▪ Take your foot off the gas pedal and slowly apply the brakes. 6 [no obj] : to have an effect on someone or something
▪ The rule no longer applies. ▪ The same principle applies [=can be used] when you are trying to lose weight. — often + to ▪ The ban applies [=relates, pertains] to all guns that are not used for hunting. ▪ These rules apply to everyone in the school. [=everyone in the school must obey these rules] ▪ This applies equally to men and (to) women. ▪ The rule doesn't apply to you, so don't worry about it. 7 : to use a word, name, etc., to describe someone or something — usually + to [no obj] ▪ The term “baby boomer” usually applies to people who were born immediately after World War II. [+ obj] ▪ The author applies the name/label to corrupt politicians. — often used as (be) applied ▪ The term “baby boomer” is usually applied to people who were born immediately after World War II.