apply

ap|ply [ ə`plaı ] verb ***

▸ 1 request a job etc.

▸ 2 use method/law etc.

▸ 3 be relevant to/affect

▸ 4 put something on surface

▸ 5 use physical force

▸ + PHRASES

1. ) intransitive to make an official request for a job or a place to study at a college or university, or for permission to do or have something:

We advertised three jobs, and over 50 people applied.

apply for: I have applied for a scholarship.

apply to: You have to apply to the U.S. embassy for a visa.

apply to do something: Why don't you apply to join the fire department?

2. ) transitive to use a particular method, process, law, etc.:

The trial judge had applied an incorrect principle of law.

apply something to something: A similar technique can be applied to the treatment of cancer.

a ) to use a particular name or word for someone or something:

In the past, unhelpful terms were often applied to children who were dyslexic.

3. ) intransitive to affect or be relevant to a particular person or thing:

apply to: The restriction no longer applies to him because he's over eighteen.

4. ) transitive to put a layer of something such as paint onto a surface:

Sara applied her lipstick carefully.

apply something to something: Apply two coats of varnish to the table.

5. ) transitive FORMAL to use physical force in order to make something happen or work:

Apply pressure to the wound to stop it bleeding.

Apply the brakes smoothly as you approach the junction.

apply yourself

to work very hard on something for a long time