Application vs. Applying — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 20, 2024
Application typically refers to a formal request or submission, like a job application, while applying involves the act of putting something into practice or effort.
Difference Between Application and Applying
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
An application is often a formal document or process used to request something, such as a job, admission to a school, or a loan. On the other hand, applying refers to the action or process of putting something into effect or being actively involved in a task.
In the context of job seeking, an application usually involves submitting a resume and a cover letter to a potential employer, whereas applying can also mean the broader process of seeking out opportunities and engaging in various stages of the hiring process.
Application can also refer to a specific use of a concept or tool, such as a software application. Conversely, applying is the general act of using knowledge, principles, or tools in practical situations.
Application in a technical context, like in computing, refers to a computer program designed to perform a group of coordinated functions, tasks, or activities. Meanwhile, applying could involve using this application to complete specific tasks, such as applying a graphics editing software to design images.
Application often results in a tangible or formal outcome (like a submitted form or installed software), while applying is more about the process and may not necessarily lead to an immediate tangible result.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A formal request or the practical use of a concept or tool.
The act of putting something into effect or executing a process.
Contexts
Jobs, software, loans, admissions.
General usage, such as skills, knowledge, principles.
Outcome
Often a tangible result like acceptance or software installation.
Process-oriented, may not have immediate tangible outcomes.
Usage in Sentences
"I submitted my application last week."
"I am applying the skills I learned in class."
Physical/Digital
Can be a document or a digital form/software.
Mainly an action or a process, not typically physical.
Compare with Definitions
Application
A formal request for something, such as a job or permission.
I filled out the college application meticulously.
Applying
The act of using principles or laws in various situations.
She excels in applying legal principles in unique cases.
Application
The practical use of something in real-life scenarios.
His knowledge of physics found application in the new design.
Applying
The act of putting something into practice or use.
She is applying her research to real-world problems.
Application
The act of putting something into operation.
The application of this theory is complicated.
Applying
To request or seek something formally.
He is applying for jobs in the finance sector.
Application
A computer program designed for a specific task.
That mobile application simplifies shopping.
Applying
To physically spread or attach something to another surface.
We are applying the final coat of paint.
Application
A method of doing or achieving something.
The application of effort resulted in his success.
Applying
To put forth effort towards a goal.
He is applying himself fully to learning a new language.
Application
The act of applying.
Applying
To bring into contact with something; put on
Applied glue sparingly to the paper.
Application
Something applied, such as a cosmetic or curative agent.
Applying
To put to or adapt for a special use
Applies all her money to her mortgage.
Application
The act of putting something to a special use or purpose
An application of a new method.
Applying
To put into action
Applied the brakes.
Application
A specific use to which something is put
The application of science to industry.
Applying
To engage (oneself) in a task with close attention or persistence
Applied myself to my studies.
Application
The capacity of being usable; relevance
Geometry has practical application in aviation and navigation.
Applying
To be pertinent or relevant
A rule that applies to everyone.
Application
Close attention; diligence
Shows application to her work.
Applying
To request or seek assistance, employment, or admission
Applied for unemployment benefits.
Will apply to college next year.
Application
A request, as for assistance, employment, or admission to a school.
Applying
Present participle of apply
Application
The form or document on which such a request is made.
Applying
The act of applying; an application.
Application
(Computers) A computer program designed for a specific task or use.
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 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
Common Curiosities
Can applying be part of an application process?
Yes, applying the required steps and efforts is essential in any application process.
How does applying relate to jobs?
Applying includes seeking job opportunities and engaging in the processes required to secure employment.
What does application mean in technology?
In technology, an application refers to software designed to help users perform specific tasks.
What is the primary difference between an application and applying?
An application is a formal request or usage, while applying is the act of putting something into practice.
Is an application always written?
Often, but applications can also be verbal or digital, such as in software.
Can one be good at applications but not at applying?
Yes, someone might be skilled at completing applications (e.g., filling out forms accurately) but struggle with applying (e.g., utilizing skills in practical scenarios) due to differences in task nature and required skills.
What are common examples of applications in daily life?
Common examples include job applications, loan applications, and college applications, where individuals submit required information to request something formally.
How is applying different when used in a technical context?
In a technical context, applying often refers to the use of specific methodologies or technologies in practical settings, such as applying machine learning algorithms to data analysis.
Is an application limited to paper forms?
No, applications can also be digital, such as online job applications or mobile apps, expanding beyond traditional paper forms.
How does one improve in applying knowledge or skills effectively?
Improving in applying knowledge or skills can be achieved through practice, feedback, and real-world experience to better understand how theoretical knowledge translates into practical application.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
