Translation guide
The English word "apply" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common ones for learners: applying for a job or school, applying a rule or method, applying something like paint or cream, and applying oneself to a task. Each meaning uses different Japanese expressions.
To submit an application or make a formal request for something.
Used for applying to jobs, contests, or opportunities. Focuses on the act of submitting an application.
その会社に応募しました。
I applied to that company.
Many people applied for the job.
General term for applying, registering, or signing up for something. Used for schools, courses, memberships, and services.
大学に申し込む。
Apply to a university.
クレジットカードを申し込んだ。
I applied for a credit card.
Formal term specifically for applying to schools or taking examinations.
東京大学に出願する。
Apply to the University of Tokyo.
Used for official applications to government offices, such as visas, permits, or certificates.
ビザを申請する。
Apply for a visa.
パスポートの更新を申請した。
I applied for a passport renewal.
To put something into use or practice in a particular situation.
The most direct translation for applying rules, laws, or standards.
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.
To apply a formula, template, or concept to something. Often used in academic or problem-solving contexts.
To apply knowledge or theory in a practical way. Emphasizes practical application.
学んだことを実生活に応用する。
Apply what you've learned to real life.
To put or spread a substance onto a surface.
General verb for applying creams, ointments, paint, or other spreadable substances.
日焼け止めを塗る。
Apply sunscreen.
壁にペンキを塗った。
I applied paint to the wall.
Used for applying cosmetics, medicine, or small amounts of something. Often implies dabbing or attaching.
Specifically for applying stickers, patches, or adhesive sheets.
シールを貼る。
Apply a sticker.
To work hard and diligently on something.
To devote oneself to a single task or goal.
彼は研究に専念している。
He is applying himself to his research.
To throw oneself into an activity with enthusiasm.
彼女は仕事に打ち込んでいる。
She applies herself to her work.
To strive or make an effort. Slightly formal.
適用する means "apply" in the sense of rules or methods. Using it for job applications would be incorrect. Use 応募する or 申し込む instead.
塗る is for spreading substances over a surface (paint, cream). つける is for dabbing or attaching small amounts (lipstick, medicine). For sunscreen, 塗る is more common.
IT企業に応募しました。
I applied for a job at a tech company.
この規則はこの場合には適用されません。
This rule doesn't apply in this case.
クリームを顔に均等に塗ってください。
Apply the cream evenly to your face.
この公式を問題に当てはめてください。
Please apply this formula to the problem.
Apply lipstick.
傷に薬をつけた。
I applied medicine to the wound.
Apply oneself to one's studies.