Another Word for Apply: 30 Synonyms With Examples
The closest everyday alternative to “apply” is use, as in “use a method” or “use what you learned.” But “apply” has several meanings, so the best alternative depends on context. When putting a substance on a surface, try spread or rub. For making a formal request, try a request or submit. For being relevant to something, try pertaining.
“Apply” can also mean giving your effort to a task, exerting force, or enforcing a rule. Each sense has its own set of better fitting words, which is why one synonym rarely works everywhere.
Quick list: use, utilize, employ, implement, spread, request, submit, pertain, devote, exert
This article looks at 30 alternatives in detail, with meanings, IPA, usage notes, examples, and context, so you can pick the right word for each sense.
At a Glance: Apply Synonyms and Related Alternatives
| Alternative | Part of Speech | Meaning | Register / Tone | Ideal Context |
| use | verb | to put something to a purpose | Neutral, everyday | Methods, tools, skills, knowledge |
| employ | verb | to use as a means or method | Formal | Strategies, techniques, tools |
| implement | verb | to carry out or put into effect | Formal, professional | Plans, policies, systems |
| spread | verb | to put a layer over a surface | Neutral | Butter, glue, cream, paint |
| request | verb | to ask for something formally | Neutral to formal | Documents, services, permission |
| submit | verb | to hand in for consideration | Formal | Forms, applications, reports |
| pertain | verb | to relate or be relevant to | Formal | Rules, notices, questions |
| devote | verb | to give time or effort fully | Neutral to formal | Study, work, causes |
| exert | verb | to put forth force or influence | Formal | Pressure, influence, effort |
| enforce | verb | to make sure a rule is obeyed | Formal | Laws, rules, policies |
Which Word Should You Use?
| If you want to… | Use | Why |
| Say you put a method or skill to work in plain English | use | It is the simplest and most natural choice. |
| Sound more formal about using a method | employ | It suits writing about strategies and techniques. |
| Put a plan or policy into action | implement | It focuses on carrying out something planned. |
| Put a thin layer of something on a surface | spread | It fits soft substances like butter, glue, and cream. |
| Put on a very small amount, lightly | dab | It suggests gentle, small touches. |
| Ask officially for something | request | It is simple and clear in forms and emails. |
| Say a rule is relevant to someone | pertain | “Pertains to” is the formal match for “applies to.” |
| Say you give your full effort | devote | It works in “devote yourself to” where “apply yourself” sounds old fashioned. |
| Say you push with force or influence | exert | It matches “apply pressure” and “apply force.” |
| Make people follow a law | enforce | It describes making sure the rule is obeyed. |
Exploring the Multiple Meanings of “Apply”
1. Putting a Substance on a Surface
- Meaning: To put or spread something on a surface.
- Explanation: This is the physical sense. It is common with creams, paint, makeup, and medicines. Words like “spread,” “rub,” and “dab” fit here, but “use” does not.
- Example: Apply a thin layer of sunscreen before going outside.
2. Using Something for a Purpose
- Meaning: To put knowledge, a method, or a skill to practical use.
- Explanation: Here “apply” means taking an idea and using it in a real situation. “Use,” “employ,” and “implement” are the closest matches.
- Example: She applied what she learned in class to her first job.
3. Making a Formal Request
- Meaning: To ask formally for something, such as a job, a loan, or a place at a school.
- Explanation: This sense usually involves a form or a process. It is almost always followed by “for” (the thing you want) or “to” (the organization).
- Example: He applied for a student visa last month.
4. Being Relevant or Valid
- Meaning: To be relevant to someone or something, or to be true in a certain case.
- Explanation: In this sense, “apply” has no person doing the action. A rule, a law, or a statement “applies.” The word is usually followed by “to.”
- Example: The new dress code applies to all employees.
5. Devoting Effort or Attention
- Meaning: To give your full effort or attention to a task.
- Explanation: This sense almost always appears in the phrase “apply yourself.” It sounds somewhat formal or old fashioned.
- Example: If you apply yourself, you will pass the exam.
6. Exerting Pressure or Force
- Meaning: To put pressure or force on something.
- Explanation: This is common in first aid, driving, and engineering. It is also used figuratively for pressure on a person.
- Example: Apply firm pressure to the cut to stop the bleeding.
Sources: Merriam Webster (apply); Collins English Dictionary (apply); Dictionary.com (apply).
Analyzing 30 Apply Alternatives in Detail
Some of these alternatives are close synonyms for one sense of “apply,” while others are related words that fit only in certain contexts. The Usage note for each word says which is which.
Group 1: Synonyms for Using or Putting Into Practice
When you need another word for apply in the sense of using knowledge, methods, tools, or ideas, several alternatives can make your writing clearer. The best choice depends on the context, level of formality, and intended meaning.
1. Use
Meaning: To put something into service for a particular purpose.
IPA: /juːz/ (US and UK)
Usage: Use is the most common everyday synonym for apply when referring to a method, tool, or idea. It works naturally in conversations, instructions, and professional writing. However, it does not usually replace apply when spreading a substance or submitting a formal request.
Example: You can use this method to solve similar problems.
2. Utilize
Meaning: To make practical use of something, often a resource.
IPA: US /ˈjuːtəlaɪz/ · UK /ˈjuːtɪlaɪz/
Usage: Utilize is a formal alternative that often appears in technical, academic, and professional writing. Although it can replace apply when discussing resources or methods, use is usually simpler and more natural.
Example: The school utilizes recycled water for its gardens.
3. Employ
Meaning: To use a tool, technique, or strategy; also, to hire someone.
IPA: /ɪmˈplɔɪ/ (US and UK)
Usage: Employ suits formal writing about techniques and strategies. Consider the context because it can also refer to hiring workers.
Example: Teachers employ several strategies to engage students.
4. Implement
Meaning: To put a plan, policy, or decision into effect.
IPA: US /ˈɪmpləˌmɛnt/ · UK /ˈɪmplɪmɛnt/
Usage: Implement is appropriate when applying a policy, system, or plan means carrying it out. It is less suitable for general knowledge or skills.
Example: The city will implement the new parking rules in January.
5. Practice
Meaning: To perform an activity or put an idea into action, often regularly.
IPA: /ˈpræktɪs/ (US and UK)
Usage: Practice works when apply means following a principle or regularly putting an idea into action. In British English, the verb is spelled practise.
Example: The company practices what it teaches about fair pay.
6. Exercise
Meaning: To use or bring a right, power, or quality into action.
IPA: US /ˈɛksərsaɪz/ · UK /ˈeksəsaɪz/
Usage: Exercise is a formal alternative when discussing rights, judgment, caution, or authority. It is context-specific rather than a universal synonym for apply.
Example: Citizens should exercise their right to vote.
Group 2: Synonyms for Spreading or Putting Something on a Surface
When apply means placing a substance onto a surface, choosing a more specific verb can make your writing more precise. Words such as spread, rub, and coat describe different actions, while dab emphasizes a light touch. The right alternative depends on the material, the surface, and the technique.
7. Spread
Meaning: To distribute a layer of something over a surface.
IPA: /sprɛd/ (US and UK)
Usage: Spread is a direct alternative when applying soft or sticky substances, including butter, cream, and glue. It emphasizes distributing the material across an area.
Example: Spread a thin layer of glue along the edge.
8. Rub
Meaning: To move something firmly back and forth against a surface.
IPA: /rʌb/ (US and UK)
Usage: Rub describes applying a substance through repeated movement or pressure. It suits lotion, oil, and similar products but is less appropriate for painting or covering a surface lightly.
Example: Rub the lotion into your hands until it disappears.
9. Smear
Meaning: To spread a thick or sticky substance over a surface, sometimes messily.
IPA: US /smɪr/ · UK /smɪə/
Usage: Smear often suggests an uneven or careless application. It can also mean damaging someone’s reputation through false or harmful claims.
Example: He smeared butter all over the bread.
10. Dab
Meaning: To apply a small amount of something with a light touch.
IPA: /dæb/ (US and UK)
Usage: Dab is useful when applying small amounts of perfume, makeup, or ointment. Unlike rub, it does not necessarily involve continuous pressure or movement.
Example: She dabbed a little perfume behind her ears.
11. Coat
Meaning: To cover something with a layer of a substance.
IPA: US /koʊt/ · UK /kəʊt/
Usage: Coat emphasizes covering a surface rather than simply placing a small amount on it. It works well with paint, wax, oil, and varnish.
Example: Coat the pan with oil before baking.
12. Administer
Meaning: To give medicine or provide treatment to someone.
IPA: US /ədˈmɪnɪstər/ · UK /ədˈmɪnɪstə/
Usage: Administer is a formal alternative in medical contexts. It describes giving medication or treatment rather than spreading a substance onto a surface. The word can also mean managing an organization or system.
Example: The nurse administered the prescribed medication.
Making a Formal Request
13. Request
IPA: /rɪˈkwɛst/ (US and UK)
Definition: To ask for something politely or formally.
- Usage: A related alternative for “apply for.” It names the asking but not the formal process. “Request a refund” is natural, but “request a job” is not.
- Example: You can request a copy of your records online.
14. Petition
IPA: /pəˈtɪʃən/ (US and UK)
Definition: To make a formal written request to an authority, often with signatures.
- Usage: A related alternative that is stronger and more official than “apply.” It suits public, legal, or political requests.
- Example: Residents petitioned the council for a new crossing.
15. Seek
IPA: /siːk/ (US and UK)
Definition: To try to get or find something.
- Usage: A related, slightly formal alternative for “apply for” in phrases like “seek a position” or “seek permission.” It does not require a formal process.
- Example: She is seeking a position in marketing.
16. Submit
IPA: /səbˈmɪt/ (US and UK)
Definition: To hand in something, such as a form or document, for consideration.
- Usage: A related alternative. It describes the act of sending the application, not the person’s request. You can “submit an application,” but you do not “submit for a job.”
- Example: Please submit your form before Friday.
17. Bid
IPA: /bɪd/ (US and UK)
Definition: To make an offer or attempt to win something, often against others.
- Usage: A related alternative that suits contracts, auctions, and competitions. It is narrower than “apply for.”
- Example: Three firms are bidding for the contract.
Being Relevant or Valid
18. Pertain
IPA: US /pərˈteɪn/ · UK /pəˈteɪn/
Definition: To relate directly to something or be relevant to it.
- Usage: A direct, formal synonym for “apply to” in the sense of relevance. It is always followed by “to.”
- Example: These rules pertain to all new staff.
19. Relate
IPA: /rɪˈleɪt/ (US and UK)
Definition: To have a connection with something.
- Usage: A related alternative. It is looser than “apply,” since something can relate to a topic without being a rule that covers it.
- Example: Her question relates to the second chapter.
20. Hold
IPA: US /hoʊld/ · UK /həʊld/
Definition: To remain true or valid.
- Usage: A close synonym for “apply” when you say a statement or rule is still true. It is often followed by “true” or “good,” and it sounds natural in conversation.
- Example: The same rule holds for adults.
21. Concern
IPA: US /kənˈsɝːn/ · UK /kənˈsɜːn/
Definition: To be about someone or something, or to affect them.
- Usage: A related alternative. It works for notices, rules, and decisions that affect people, as in “This notice concerns all residents.” It is not a general synonym.
- Example: The new law concerns everyone who owns a car.
Giving Effort or Attention
22. Devote
IPA: US /dɪˈvoʊt/ · UK /dɪˈvəʊt/
Definition: To give time, energy, or attention fully to something.
- Usage: A close alternative for the sense of “apply yourself.” “Devote yourself to” sounds more natural to modern readers.
- Example: He devoted his weekends to learning the guitar.
23. Dedicate
IPA: /ˈdɛdɪkeɪt/ (US and UK)
Definition: To commit time or effort to a special purpose.
- Usage: A related alternative that is close to “devote” but slightly more formal and serious. It suggests a lasting commitment.
- Example: She dedicated years to studying whales.
24. Concentrate
IPA: US /ˈkɑːnsəntreɪt/ · UK /ˈkɒnsəntreɪt/
Definition: To focus your attention on one thing.
- Usage: A related alternative for “apply your mind.” It covers attention only, not effort in general.
- Example: Try to concentrate on one task at a time.
25. Direct
IPA: /dɪˈrɛkt/ (US and UK)
Definition: To aim or turn effort, attention, or energy toward something.
- Usage: A related alternative that works with objects like “efforts,” “energy,” and “attention.” It is not used for people applying themselves directly.
- Example: She directed her energy into her studies.
Exerting Force or Enforcing Rules
26. Exert
IPA: US /ɪɡˈzɝːt/ · UK /ɪɡˈzɜːt/
Definition: To put forth force, effort, or influence.
- Usage: A direct, formal synonym for “apply” in “apply pressure” or “apply force.” It also works figuratively with influence.
- Example: The coach exerted pressure on the team to win.
27. Press
IPA: /prɛs/ (US and UK)
Definition: To push something firmly against something else.
- Usage: A related alternative for physical pressure, as in first aid. It describes the action of pushing, not general application.
- Example: Press the bandage firmly against the cut.
28. Impose
IPA: US /ɪmˈpoʊz/ · UK /ɪmˈpəʊz/
Definition: To put a rule, tax, or penalty on people by official power.
- Usage: A close alternative for “apply a penalty, fee, or tax.” It often suggests the rule is forced on people.
- Example: The government imposed a new tax on sugary drinks.
29. Enforce
IPA: US /ɪnˈfɔːrs/ · UK /ɪnˈfɔːs/
Definition: To make sure a law or rule is obeyed.
- Usage: A related alternative for “apply the law.” It focuses on making people follow the rule, not simply on the rule covering them.
- Example: Police officers enforce the speed limit.
30. Invoke
IPA: US /ɪnˈvoʊk/ · UK /ɪnˈvəʊk/
Definition: To call on a law, rule, or principle as authority for an action.
- Usage: A formal, related alternative. It means to cite a rule, not to apply it in practice. It is common in legal and business writing.
- Example: The company invoked a clause in the contract to cancel the deal.
Sources: Merriam Webster; Collins English Dictionary and Collins Thesaurus; Dictionary.com.
Apply for vs. Apply to: Choosing the Right Preposition
Most learner mistakes with “apply” involve the word that follows it. The preposition changes the meaning.
| Pattern | Meaning | Example |
| apply for + thing wanted | to ask formally for a job, loan, visa, or place | She applied for a scholarship. |
| apply to + organization | to send a request to a school, company, or office | He applied to three universities. |
| apply to + person or group | to be relevant to them (a rule or law) | The rule applies to everyone. |
| apply (something) to + surface or situation | to put on, or to use in a case | Apply the cream to the skin. |
| apply yourself to + task | to give full effort | He applied himself to his studies. |
A simple test: if the word after “for” is something you want, use “for.” If the word after “to” is a place, group, or surface, use “to.”
Sources: Merriam Webster (apply); Collins English Dictionary (apply).
Apply and Opposite/Paired Word Pairs
| Word | Paired Word | Note |
| apply (cream, paint, makeup) | remove | The natural opposite for surface use. |
| apply (for a job) | withdraw | You can withdraw an application. |
| apply (a rule or fee) | waive | Not a strict opposite, but it means giving up the right to apply it. |
| apply | misapply | Means to apply wrongly. |
| apply (a rule) | ignore | A natural contrast, though “ignore” is not a formal antonym. |
| applied (science) | theoretical / pure | Pairs “applied” with ideas not yet put to practical use. |
“Apply” has no single opposite because it has several senses. Each sense has its own natural contrast, such as “remove” for surfaces and “withdraw” for requests. Some pairs, like “waive,” are contrasts in use rather than true antonyms.
Sources: Merriam Webster (apply, applied); Collins English Dictionary and Collins Thesaurus.
Common Word Partners of “Apply”
| Pattern | Common Partners | Example |
| apply + substance | cream, sunscreen, makeup, paint, ointment | She applied sunscreen to her arms. |
| apply + abstract noun | knowledge, skills, theory, principle, logic | He applied basic logic to the problem. |
| apply + rule or cost | rule, law, policy, standard, fee, tax | A late fee will be applied. |
| apply + force | pressure, force, the brakes | Apply the brakes gently. |
| apply for + thing | a job, visa, loan, passport, grant, scholarship | They applied for a loan. |
| apply to + place | a university, a college, a company | She applied to a local college. |
| adverb + apply | generally, equally, strictly, directly, widely | The rule applies equally to everyone. |
| apply + manner | online, in person, in writing | You can apply online. |
Sources: Collins English Dictionary (apply, with example sentences); Merriam Webster (apply).
Idiomatic Phrases Featuring “Apply”
“Apply” has very few true idioms. The phrases below are established expressions, meaning they appear in a fixed form and are widely recognized.
1. Apply Yourself
- Meaning: To work hard and give full attention to a task.
- Example: The teacher said Maya could do very well if she applied herself.
2. Apply the Brakes
- Meaning: To slow down a vehicle, or, figuratively, to slow down a process or plan.
- Example: The company applied the brakes on hiring until sales improved.
3. Terms and Conditions Apply
- Meaning: A standard notice meaning that the offer has rules or limits that must be followed.
- Example: The ad promised free delivery, but small print said terms and conditions apply.
4. Apply Pressure
- Meaning: To push firmly on something, or, figuratively, to try to force someone to act.
- Example: Fans applied pressure on the club to sign a new coach.
Sources: Merriam Webster (apply); Collins English Dictionary (apply).
Word Formation of “Apply”
Etymology & Structure
“Apply” came into English from Old French aplier, which came from Latin applicare, meaning to join to or attach. The Latin word is built from ad (“to”) and plicare (“to fold”). The original idea is folding or fastening one thing onto another, which still shows in the surface sense.
Date and History
“Apply” dates to the 14th century in English, according to Etymonline and Merriam Webster. The earliest meaning was to bring one thing into contact with another. The senses of making a request and being relevant developed later.
Word Class Variations
- Verb: apply, applies, applied, applying; also reapply and misapply
- Noun: application, applicant, applicator, applicability, appliance (related)
- Adjective: applicable, inapplicable, applied (as in “applied science”)
- Adverb: no common adverb form
Sources: Etymonline (apply, application); Merriam Webster (apply).
Common Word Choice Mistakes
- “I applied for the job”: I applied for the job.
- “She applied for the university”: She applied to the university (or applied for a place at the university).
- “Take the cream on your skin”: Apply the cream to your skin.
- “He submitted for a job”: He applied for a job, or submitted an application.
- “Please utilize the side door”: Please use the side door. “Utilize” is too formal here.
- “This rule pertains everyone”: This rule pertains to everyone.
- “Apply the medicine twice a day” (for pills): Take the medicine twice a day. “Apply” fits creams and ointments only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Another Word for Apply
1. What Is the Closest Synonym for Apply?
The closest everyday synonym for apply is use, especially when referring to a method, skill, or tool. However, the best alternative depends on the context. For example, spread works when putting cream on a surface, while submit describes sending an application.
2. What Is a Formal Alternative to Apply?
Formal alternatives include employ, utilize, and implement. Use employ for a technique, utilize for a resource, and implement for a plan or policy. When describing relevance, pertain to is another suitable expression.
3. What Is Another Word for Apply in a Job Application?
Seek and pursue can describe trying to obtain a job. However, submit refers to sending the application rather than seeking the position itself.
4. What Is Another Word for Apply When Putting on Cream or Paint?
Use spread, rub, dab, or coat, depending on the action. Dab suits small amounts, while coat emphasizes covering an entire surface.
5. What Is the Difference Between Apply For and Apply To?
Use apply for when naming something you want, such as a job or visa. Use apply to when identifying the organization receiving your application or the people affected by a rule.
6. Can Apply Be Used for Rules and Laws?
Yes. Rules and laws can apply to people or situations. Depending on the context, enforce or implement may also work.
7. Is Utilize the Same as Apply?
Not exactly. Utilize means making practical use of something, while apply can also mean requesting, spreading, or putting a rule into effect.
8. What Does Apply Yourself Mean?
To apply yourself means to work diligently and focus on a task. Devote yourself is a related alternative.
9. What Is the Opposite of Apply?
There is no single opposite. Remove fits substances on surfaces, while withdraw may fit an application.
10. Can Apply Pressure Be Used Figuratively?
Yes. Apply pressure can mean physically pressing something or trying to persuade someone strongly. Exert pressure is a close alternative.
Conclusion
The closest everyday alternative to “apply” is “use,” and formal options include “employ,” “utilize,” and “implement.” For surfaces, words like “spread,” “rub,” and “dab” are better, and for requests, “seek,” “request,” and “submit” fit better.
Context matters because “apply” covers several different ideas, from putting on cream to asking for a job to being relevant to a rule. Some alternatives are direct synonyms for one sense, while others, like “invoke” or “bid,” fit only narrow situations.
To choose the right word, first decide which sense you mean. Then match the word to the tone and context. Use “use” for plain writing, “pertain” or “enforce” for formal writing, and “spread” or “dab” for physical tasks.
Noman is the founder and author of Factwy.com, where he shares informative, useful, and easy-to-understand content. With a passion for research and writing, he creates articles that simplify complex topics and provide valuable insights. His goal is to deliver clear, accurate, and reader-friendly information that helps visitors learn something new every day.
