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).
I applied to that company.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Please send the application documents.
The university application is due next month.
You can apply online.
ビザの申請に時間がかかります。
The visa application takes time.
I applied for a subsidy.
出願期間は今週までです。
The application period is until this week.
Practical application of theory, knowledge, or technology. Often used in academic or technical contexts.
Applying theory in practice is difficult.
This technology has many applications.
Application of rules, laws, standards, or methods to specific cases. Emphasizes fitting something to a situation.
This rule applies to everyone.
I tried applying the new method.
Making use of something (a service, facility, opportunity). Closer to 'utilization' but often translates 'application' in contexts like 'application of a technique'.
Please tell me how to apply this technique.
I downloaded a new app.
This app is free.
The full word, more formal or technical. Used for desktop software or in official contexts.
This application is for business use.
Short for ソフトウェア (software). Can refer to applications in a general sense, but less specific than アプリ.
I'm using a spreadsheet application.
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.
Don't forget to apply sunscreen.
I applied paint to the wall.
For applying stickers, patches, or adhesive items to a surface.
Please apply a bandage.
apply for a course
apply for a passport
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.