aplicar
/apliˈkaɾ/
The English verb 'apply' is translated as aplicar in Spanish.
Aplicar is a common and versatile way to express 'apply'. It means to put to use, or to use and employ something for a particular purpose or in a particular case.
Meaning: to put to use, to use or employ for a particular purpose, or in a particular case (verb)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Argentina, when you are applying for a job or a specific position, the verb postular may be used instead of aplicar.
How does it change in a sentence?
The past participle aplicado can function as an adjective to describe something that is being put into practice or used, such as in the phrase conocimiento aplicado (applied knowledge).
How do you pronounce it?
/apliˈkaɾ/
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly use aplicar when they mean 'to apply for a job or a scholarship'. In many Spanish-speaking regions, it is more natural and correct to use solicitar for these contexts.
Did you know?
- In Spanish, if you describe a student as aplicado, you are not saying they are being put to use, but that they are hardworking and diligent.
- The Latin root of aplicar is plicāre, which means 'to fold', suggesting that 'applying' something is akin to 'folding' it toward a purpose.
- In legal contexts, aplicar is used specifically to denote the enforcement of a law or penalty, rather than just using a tool.
Examples in context
- Voy a aplicar para la beca.I'm going to apply for the scholarship.This sentence shows how to use aplicar in the context of applying for a scholarship.Tatoeba #4748666 by ecorralest101, translation #254487 by CK
- Se pueden aplicar algunas restricciones.Some restrictions may apply.This sentence demonstrates the use of aplicar regarding restrictions.Tatoeba #4556539 by DarkHollow, translation #4495681 by CK
- Se pueden aplicar ciertas restricciones.Certain restrictions may apply.This sentence shows an alternative way to use aplicar with certain restrictions.Tatoeba #6548680 by emigonza, translation #4495680 by CK
- Él solicitó una beca para estudiar en el extranjero.He applied for a scholarship to study abroad.
- Por favor, presente su solicitud completando este formulario.Please submit your application by filling out this form.
- Ella se está echando maquillaje para prepararse para la fiesta.She's applying makeup to get ready for the party.
- ¿Puedes ponerte protector solar antes de que vayamos a la playa?Can you apply sunscreen before we go to the beach?
- Necesito esfumar y aplicar la sombra de ojos para obtener el efecto ahumado.I need to apply and blend the eyeshadow for the smoky eye look.
- 9 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Mateo and Lucía are in a workshop discussing a new tool.
- MateoDebemos aplicar esta técnica para el proyecto.We must apply this technique for the project.
- LucíaEs una buena idea, Mateo.It is a good idea, Mateo.
- Mateo¿Sabes cómo aplicar el pegamento correctamente?Do you know how to apply the glue correctly?
- LucíaSí, yo puedo aplicar la solución ahora.Yes, I can apply the solution now.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “apply” translations and entries aplicar, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries aplicar, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
