Application
ap-li-KAY-shun
/ˌæplɪˈkeɪʃən/
A formal request to an authority for something.
In the context of college, it refers to the entire package of documents and information submitted to apply for admission.
The story behind the word. 'Application' comes from the Latin verb applicare, meaning 'to apply, attach, join to.' It literally meant 'to fold towards' (ad- 'to' + plicare 'to fold'). Over time, it evolved to mean putting something to use, and by the 15th century, it was used for a formal request, as if 'folding' your request towards an authority.
Word relationships
- Petition: often implies a more formal, sometimes legal, request from many people
- Request: more general and less formal
- Withdrawal: the act of taking back a request
- Refusal: the act of denying a request
Commonly confused with
- Appliance: 'Application' is a request or use; 'appliance' is a device or machine.
Word family
- Apply (verb): to make a formal request or put something into effect
- Applicant (noun): a person who applies for something
- Applicable (adjective): relevant or appropriate
Collocations
- college application
- job application
- submit an application
- complete an application
- application form
- application deadline
Example sentences
- "The university received thousands of applications for its limited spots this year." General use in college admissions.
- "Her college application included a compelling essay and strong letters of recommendation." Referring to the specific documents.
- "Submitting a late application can severely reduce your chances of acceptance." Consequences of timing.
Memory hook
Imagine you have to APPLY a lot of effort to complete your APPLICATION for college. Apply to an application.
When not to use
Don't use 'application' when you mean the act of applying (verb 'apply').
Fun facts
- The word 'application' is also used for software programs, as they are 'applied' to a task.
- Before standardized forms, college applications were often free-form letters.
Related words
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