third-person singular verb
Officially asks for something, especially a job, place on a course, visa, or loan.
She applies for a summer job at the museum.
Leo applies to the college for financial aid.
American English
How to pronounce applies
verbB1Very common word
uhpLAIZ
/əpˈlaɪz/
2 syllables · Stress the second syllable.
Form of apply
Applies is used with he, she, it, or a singular noun. With I, you, we, or they, use apply.
Officially asks for something, especially a job, place on a course, visa, or loan.
Practice out loudMeanings & examples
third-person singular verb
Puts something on a surface or part of the body, or uses force there.
She applies sunscreen before going outside.
Elena applies a fresh coat of paint to the door.
third-person singular verb
Uses an idea, rule, method, or skill in a particular situation.
She applies the same method to every problem.
He applies what he learned at work.
third-person singular verb
Concerns a person or situation; is relevant to them.
The rule applies to all visitors.
This discount applies only to online orders.
Useful expressions
to officially ask to be considered for a job
I applied for a job at the hospital.
to be relevant to a person or situation
This rule applies to all employees.
to work with full attention and effort
She applied herself to her studies.
Related words & forms
The spelling changes: applies and applied, but applying. The y changes to i before -es and -ed; before -ing, keep y.