verb

apply

Translation

to apply, to put on, to be relevant

You should apply for that job.

Apply the cream to your skin.

The new rule does not apply to me.

You need to apply your knowledge.

((to apply for sth.)) to make a formal request for sth. I want to apply for this course.

((to apply sth. to sth.)) to put or spread sth. onto sth. Apply this logic to the problem.

((to apply to sb./sth.)) to be relevant to sb./sth. This rule applies to everyone.

Synonyms: request, use, implement, spread

From Latin 'applicare' (to attach to), from 'ad-' (to) + 'plicare' (to fold). The idea is of 'folding' something onto another.

Think of 'applying' yourself to a job (requesting it), 'applying' cream to skin (spreading it), or a rule 'applying' to you (being relevant).