Translation guide
The English word 'application' has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common ones for learners: a formal request (e.g., for a job or school), practical use or relevance, a computer program or app, and the act of putting something on a surface. Each meaning requires different Japanese expressions.
Expressing the act of applying for something, or the document/process itself.
The most common word for applying to a job, contest, or opportunity. Often used in compounds like 応募する (to apply).
その会社に応募しました。
I applied to that company.
応募書類を送ってください。
Please send the application documents.
Used for applications to schools, courses, events, subscriptions, etc. Emphasizes the act of signing up or enrolling.
Formal term for official applications to government offices, permits, visas, etc. Implies a bureaucratic process.
Specifically for applying to schools (entrance exams). Very formal and limited to educational contexts.
Describing how something is used in practice, or its relevance to a situation.
Practical application of theory, knowledge, or technology. Often used in academic or technical contexts.
理論を実際に応用するのは難しい。
Applying theory in practice is difficult.
この技術には多くの応用がある。
This technology has many applications.
Application of rules, laws, standards, or methods to specific cases. Emphasizes fitting something to a situation.
Making use of something (a service, facility, opportunity). Closer to 'utilization' but often translates 'application' in contexts like 'application of a technique'.
Referring to software applications, especially on mobile devices or computers.
Short for アプリケーション. The most common word for mobile apps and lightweight software. Casual and widely understood.
新しいアプリをダウンロードした。
I downloaded a new app.
このアプリは無料です。
This app is free.
Short for ソフトウェア (software). Can refer to applications in a general sense, but less specific than アプリ.
The act of applying a substance (paint, cream, etc.) to a surface.
Technical/formal term for applying a coating, medicine, or chemical. Common in instructions and medical contexts.
軟膏を患部に塗布してください。
Apply the ointment to the affected area.
Everyday verb for applying something spreadable (paint, cream, butter). More casual than 塗布.
日焼け止めを塗るのを忘れないで。
Don't forget to apply sunscreen.
For applying stickers, patches, or adhesive items to a surface.
絆創膏を貼ってください。
Please apply a bandage.
These three words all mean 'application' but are used in different contexts. 応募 (おうぼ) is for jobs, contests, and opportunities where you are competing or being selected. 申し込み (もうしこみ) is for signing up for courses, events, subscriptions, or making reservations. 申請 (しんせい) is for official requests to authorities, like permits, visas, or certificates. Using the wrong one can sound unnatural.
The loanword アプリケーション only refers to software. Using it to mean a job or school application will cause confusion. Use 応募 or 申し込み instead.
大学の申し込みは来月までです。
The university application is due next month.
オンラインで申し込みができます。
You can apply online.
ビザの申請に時間がかかります。
The visa application takes time.
補助金の申請をしました。
I applied for a subsidy.
出願期間は今週までです。
The application period is until this week.
この規則は全員に適用されます。
This rule applies to everyone.
新しい方法を適用してみた。
I tried applying the new method.
Please tell me how to apply this technique.
The full word, more formal or technical. Used for desktop software or in official contexts.
このアプリケーションは業務用です。
This application is for business use.
I'm using a spreadsheet application.
壁にペンキを塗った。
I applied paint to the wall.