What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the imperative verb aplica (apply) and the adverb ya (now/already).
Which one should you use?
While aplica ya is used, postúlate ya is often considered a more natural and standard way to say "apply now" in many Spanish-speaking countries. For a formal tone, aplique ya or Solicite Ahora may be used instead.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, you can use the phrase Envía tu solicitud ahora to mean "Send Your Application Now."
How does it change in a sentence?
To use the formal usted form for a professional call to action, use aplique ya instead of aplica ya.
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers may mistakenly use aplica to mean "apply a substance" (such as a cream). However, in the context of a job or program, using aplica as an anglicism is common in many Latin American regions.
Did you know?
- The word postúlate, used in the phrase postúlate ya, comes from the same Latin root as the English word 'postulate', but refers to putting oneself forward as a candidate.
- Depending on how you say it, the word ya can mean 'now', 'already', or even a sharp command to 'stop it'.
- The word ya is a linguistic relative of the French word déjà, as both evolved from the Latin word iam.
Examples in context
- El programa está aceptando solicitudes. Por favor, presente su solicitud ahora para consideración.The program is accepting applications. Please submit your application now for consideration.
- ¿Tienes interés en la beca? ¡Postúlate ahora para tener la oportunidad de ganar!Are you interested in the scholarship? Apply now for a chance to win!
- Si estás interesado en el trabajo, envía tu solicitud ahora mismo.If you're interested in the job, send your application right away.
- ¿Quieres aprender a tocar música? ¡Inscríbete ahora en nuestra academia de música!Do you want to learn how to play music? Apply now to our music academy!
- ¡Aplica ya para la beca!Apply now for the scholarship!
- Si quieres el puesto, aplica ya.If you want the position, apply now.
- Aplica ya a través de nuestro sitio web.Apply now through our website.
Example conversation
Sofía tells Javier about a job opening at her company.
- SofíaJavier, hay una vacante en mi oficina.Javier, there is an opening in my office.
- JavierMe interesa mucho el trabajo.I am very interested in the job.
- SofíaEntonces, ¡aplica ya antes de que cierren!Then apply now before they close!
- JavierLo haré ahora mismo, Sofía.I will do it right now, Sofía.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ya, CC BY-SA 4.0.
