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Definitions

apply

[uh-plahy] / əˈplaɪ /
VERB
put into use
Synonyms
STRONGEST
administer employ exercise handle implement practice
STRONG
assign engage execute exploit utilize
WEAK
bring into play bring to bear
Antonyms
STRONGEST
cease halt ignore mismanage misuse neglect stop
VERB
be appropriate, relevant
Synonyms
STRONGEST
affect connect involve pertain refer relate
STRONG
allude appertain concern fit regard suit touch
WEAK
be applicable be pertinent bear upon
VERB
put substance on another
Synonyms
STRONGEST
administer cover spread
STRONG
affix anoint bestow fasten join massage paint place rub smear touch
WEAK
lay on put on
Antonyms
STRONG
detach loosen
VERB
ask, request
Synonyms
STRONGEST
appeal claim demand
STRONG
inquire petition requisition solicit sue
WEAK
put in put in for
Antonyms
STRONGEST
deny disclaim
STRONG
answer
VERB
work hard
Synonyms
STRONGEST
address commit devote give study try
STRONG
bend concentrate dedicate dig direct grind hustle persevere plug scratch sweat throw turn
WEAK
be diligent be industrious bear down buckle down give all one's got give best shot give old college try hammer away hit the ball knuckle down make effort peg away pour it on pull out all stops
Antonyms
STRONGEST
ignore keep

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Will the archives apply this new OLC logic to records it already has and stop producing them?

From Slate • Apr. 9, 2026

Amazon said it would apply a 3.5% charge to merchants for its fulfillment service.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

Higher fuel costs—including diesel prices that soared especially high—will continue to apply pressure on inflation until they ease.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

Then, after the place has been given up, you apply the EPS.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

Apparently, library rules about whispering don’t apply here because Emma shouts my name the moment I walk inside.

From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller