Language Research

application · noun

/ˌæp.ləˈkeɪ.ʃən/Full view

Word family

Nouns: applicant, application

Adjectives: applicable, applied

Verbs: apply

application (REQUEST)

B1 C an official request for something, usually in writing

Dictionary examples:

a job/college application

I've sent off applications for four different jobs.

Have you filled in the application form for your passport yet?

Learner example:

After having filled [in] the application form, the master pilot took us on a short trip around the hangars showing the planes used for training. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Italian)

application (COMPUTER SOFTWARE)

B2 C a piece of computer software designed for a particular purpose

Dictionary example:

Typical examples of software applications are spreadsheets, media players and database applications.

Learner example:

I am [an] exp[e]rienced user of [the] Internet and know all application programs for Windows '95 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, PinPoint etc). (First Certificate in English; B2; Russian)

application (USE)

C2 C or U a way in which something can be used for a particular purpose

Dictionary example:

This technology has many practical applications.

Learner example:

We have been working [o]n the growing of cells in zero-gravity environments, having in mind its possible application in outer space colonies, such as the International Space Station. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Spanish)