Applying vs. Application: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Updated on September 21, 2023
Applying is the act of making a formal request or using something, while an application is the formal request itself or the act of putting something to use.
Key Differences
Applying is a verb and refers to the act or process of making a formal request, typically in writing, to get something such as a job, admission, or a permit. It also denotes the action of putting something into operation or the act of using something. Application, on the other hand, is a noun and can refer to the formal request made, or it can signify the act or process of applying something, focusing on how something is used or put into operation.
In the context of seeking opportunities or services, applying serves as the action one takes when one wants to be considered, for example, applying for a job or applying to a university. Application, in the same context, would be the formal request or the document that is submitted, containing information and details relevant to the request. It is the tangible or digital submission that represents the act of applying.
Applying is dynamic, highlighting the ongoing nature or the procedure of making requests or utilizing something. It’s a term that places emphasis on the involvement and engagement in a process. Application, conversely, while it also deals with processes, tends to be more static and represents a state, either being the state of a submitted request or the state of something being applied or put to use.
In technological terms, applying can represent the implementation or utilization of technologies, methods, or systems, reflecting the active engagement in incorporating technologies. Application, in this realm, can refer to a specific software designed to perform certain tasks, representing the product or result of technological implementation.
In essence, while applying emphasizes the action and the process associated with requests or utilization, application focuses on the state of having applied or the tangible or intangible result or product of applying. These words, with their distinct grammatical roles and meanings, are used to express different facets of involvement and representation in various contexts.
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Comparison Chart
Grammatical Role
Verb
Noun
Represents
The act or process of making a request or using something.
The formal request itself or the act of putting something to use.
Nature
Dynamic, emphasizes ongoing action or process.
Static, represents a state or condition.
In Technology
Denotes the implementation or utilization of technologies.
Refers to a specific software or product of implementation.
Contextual Usage
Emphasizes involvement and engagement in a process.
Focuses on the tangible or intangible result or product of applying.
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Applying and Application Definitions
Applying
Applying refers to the act of making a formal request.
She is applying for a scholarship to study abroad.
Application
Application involves the practical use of theories or principles.
The application of this theory in real-world scenarios is challenging.
Applying
Applying means to be relevant or applicable.
The law is applying to all citizens equally.
Application
Application can be the systematic implementation of something.
The application of these rules is mandatory for all members.
Applying
Applying signifies the usage or implementation of methods or systems.
The company is applying innovative technologies to enhance productivity.
Application
Application signifies a specific software designed to perform tasks.
The mobile application allows users to shop online conveniently.
Applying
Applying denotes the action of putting something into operation.
He is applying pressure to stop the bleeding.
Application
The act of applying.
Applying
Applying involves actively engaging in a process.
The scientist is applying a new method to test the hypothesis.
Application
Something applied, such as a cosmetic or curative agent.
Applying
To bring into contact with something; put on
Applied glue sparingly to the paper.
Application
The act of putting something to a special use or purpose
An application of a new method.
Applying
To put to or adapt for a special use
Applies all her money to her mortgage.
Application
A specific use to which something is put
The application of science to industry.
Applying
To put into action
Applied the brakes.
Application
The capacity of being usable; relevance
Geometry has practical application in aviation and navigation.
Applying
To engage (oneself) in a task with close attention or persistence
Applied myself to my studies.
Application
Close attention; diligence
Shows application to her work.
Applying
To be pertinent or relevant
A rule that applies to everyone.
Application
A request, as for assistance, employment, or admission to a school.
Applying
To request or seek assistance, employment, or admission
Applied for unemployment benefits.
Will apply to college next year.
Application
The form or document on which such a request is made.
Applying
Present participle of apply
Application
(Computers) A computer program designed for a specific task or use.
Applying
The act of applying; an application.
Application
Of or being a computer program designed for a specific task or use
Applications software for a missile guidance system.
Application
The act of applying or laying on, in a literal sense
The application of this cream should reduce the swelling.
Application
The substance applied.
Application
The act of applying as a means; the employment of means to accomplish an end; specific use.
Application
The act of directing or referring something to a particular case, to discover or illustrate agreement or disagreement, fitness, or correspondence.
I make the remark, and leave you to make the application.
The application of a theory to a set of data can be challenging.
Application
(computing) A computer program or the set of software that the end user perceives as a single entity as a tool for a well-defined purpose. (Also called: application program; application software.)
This iPhone application can connect to most social networks.
Application
A verbal or written request for assistance or employment or admission to a school, course or similar.
December 31 is the deadline for MBA applications.
Application
A petition, entreaty, or other request, with the adposition for denoting the subject matter.
Their application for a deferral of the hearing was granted.
Application
The act of requesting, claiming, or petitioning something.
Application
Diligence; close thought or attention.
Application
A kind of needlework; appliqué.
Application
(obsolete) Compliance.
Application
The act of applying or laying on, in a literal sense; as, the application of emollients to a diseased limb.
Application
The thing applied.
He invented a new application by which blood might be stanched.
Application
The act of applying as a means; the employment of means to accomplish an end; specific use.
If a right course . . . be taken with children, there will not be much need of the application of the common rewards and punishments.
Application
The act of directing or referring something to a particular case, to discover or illustrate agreement or disagreement, fitness, or correspondence; as, I make the remark, and leave you to make the application; the application of a theory.
Application
That part of a sermon or discourse in which the principles before laid down and illustrated are applied to practical uses; the "moral" of a fable.
Application
The capacity of being practically applied or used; relevancy; as, a rule of general application.
Application
The act of fixing the mind or closely applying one's self; assiduous effort; close attention; as, to injure the health by application to study.
Had his application been equal to his talents, his progress might have been greater.
Application
The act of making request of soliciting; as, an application for an office; he made application to a court of chancery.
Application
A request; a document containing a request; as, his application was placed on file.
Application
A verbal or written request for assistance or employment or admission to a school;
December 31 is the deadline for applications
Application
The act of bringing something to bear; using it for a particular purpose;
He advocated the application of statistics to the problem
A novel application of electronics to medical diagnosis
Application
A program that gives a computer instructions that provide the user with tools to accomplish a task;
He has tried several different word processing applications
Application
The work of applying something;
The doctor prescribed a topical application of iodine
A complete bleach requires several applications
The surface was ready for a coating of paint
Application
Liquid preparation having a soothing or antiseptic or medicinal action when applied to the skin;
A lotion for dry skin
Application
A diligent effort;
It is a job requiring serious application
Application
Application refers to a formal request, typically in writing.
His application for the job was successful.
Application
Application denotes the act of putting something to use.
The application of heat can cause the substance to change its state.
FAQs
Can applying refer to the usage of methods or principles?
Yes, applying can signify the usage or implementation of specific methods, principles, or systems.
What does application as a noun represent?
As a noun, application can represent a formal request or the act of applying or putting something to use.
Is applying more about the process and action?
Yes, applying emphasizes the ongoing nature and the procedure of making requests or utilizing something.
Can application refer to software?
Yes, application can refer to a specific software designed to perform certain tasks.
Is applying a verb?
Yes, applying is a verb, representing the act or process of making a request or using something.
Can applying also mean to be relevant or applicable?
Yes, applying can also mean to be relevant or applicable in a particular situation.
Is applying dynamic in nature?
Yes, applying is dynamic, emphasizing the ongoing or active nature of an action or process.
Is application more static in nature?
Yes, application is more static, representing a state or condition, like a submitted request or something being applied.
Does applying focus more on involvement?
Yes, applying places emphasis on the involvement and engagement in a process.
Can application involve the practical use of theories?
Yes, application can involve the practical implementation or use of theories or principles.
Does applying imply active engagement in a process?
Absolutely, applying involves active engagement and involvement in a process or action.
Can an application be tangible or intangible?
Yes, an application can be tangible, like a written request, or intangible, like the application of a principle.
Can application be the result of applying?
Yes, application can represent the result or product of the act of applying.
Can application refer to a condition or state?
Absolutely, application can denote a specific state or condition, such as a state of having applied or being applied.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
