application
/a.pli.ka.sjɔ̃/feminine
In French, the English word "application" (referring to a computer program) is translated as application. Wiktionary also lists programme.
Meaning: a computer program (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| application | /a.pli.ka.sjɔ̃/ | feminine |
| programme | /pʁɔ.ɡʁam/ | masculine |
In a computing context, application refers to a specific piece of software designed for an end-user. The term Lettre de motivation is used specifically to mean a cover letter when discussing job applications.
Which one should you use?
While application typically refers to specific software like a mobile app, programme is a more general term for a computer program or a set of instructions. In casual conversation, you may also use the shortened form appli to mean "app".
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun application is feminine, so it is used with the feminine articles la or une.
How do you pronounce it?
/a.pli.ka.sjɔ̃/
Did you know?
- French speakers rarely use application when talking about applying for a job. Instead, they use the verb postuler or the phrase poser sa candidature.
- The etymology of programme traces back to the Ancient Greek 'prógramma', meaning 'a written notice beforehand', which is a much more literal way to describe a set of instructions.
- The word application is a 'false friend' to English speakers in many contexts, as it often refers to the act of 'applying' something, such as 'l'application d'une crème' for 'the application of a cream'.
Examples in context
- Ziri a téléchargé cette application.Ziri downloaded that application.This sentence shows the use of the form application.Tatoeba #11941694 by Amastan, translation #10223448 by Amastan
- Téléchargez et installez l'application.Download and install the application.Tatoeba #11282502 by lbdx, translation #5111798 by bagonyi
- Cette application a besoin de plus de fonctionnalités.This application needs more features.Tatoeba #12338910 by lbdx, translation #903328 by brauliobezerra
- J'ai envoyé ma candidature pour le poste de directeur des ventes.I sent my application for the position of sales manager.
- Il a déposé une demande d'emploi pour travailler dans ce café.He submitted a job application to work at this café.
- 21 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lucas and Manon are sitting in a cafe looking at a smartphone.
- LucasTu as installé la nouvelle application ?Did you install the new application?
- ManonOui, elle est sur mon téléphone.Yes, it is on my phone.
- LucasEst-ce qu'elle est facile à utiliser ?Is it easy to use?
- ManonL'application est vraiment très intuitive.The application is really very intuitive.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “application” translations and entries application, programme, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries application, programme, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
