Application vs. Implication — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on March 19, 2024
An application refers to a practical use or relevance of something, while an implication is a suggestion or consequence not explicitly stated.
Difference Between Application and Implication
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
An application is essentially the process or act of putting something into operation or use. It involves applying a concept, idea, or innovation in a practical, real-world situation. For example, the application of a new technology in a manufacturing process can lead to increased efficiency. On the other hand, an implication refers to an inferred or suggested outcome or effect that is not directly stated. It's often something that is hinted at or understood to be a logical consequence of something else, such as the implication of a new policy on employee workload.
Applications are often tangible and observable, manifesting in the physical application of tools, theories, or practices to achieve a specific purpose. For instance, the application of scientific principles to improve crop yields is a direct and measurable use of knowledge. Whereas implications can be more abstract and require interpretation, such as understanding the social implications of a technological advancement, which may not be immediately evident.
In the realm of software and technology, an application, often shortened to "app", specifically refers to a computer program or software designed to perform a group of coordinated functions, tasks, or activities for the benefit of the user. Contrastingly, the implication in this context might refer to the broader effects or changes that the widespread use of a particular app could have on society, such as privacy concerns or changes in communication habits.
When it comes to problem-solving or academic research, the application might involve the use of specific methodologies or frameworks to investigate a hypothesis or solve a problem. The implication here would be the broader significance or impact of the research findings, such as their contribution to existing knowledge or their potential to inspire future research.
In literature and communication, the application could involve the use of rhetorical devices or narrative techniques to convey a message or theme. The implication, in this case, would be the underlying messages or themes suggested by the text, which may require critical analysis to fully understand and appreciate.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
The act of putting something to use.
A conclusion or effect suggested but not directly expressed.
Nature
Tangible and practical.
Abstract and inferential.
In Technology
Refers to software or a program.
Refers to the consequences or effects of technology.
In Research
Use of methodologies to solve problems.
Broader significance or impact of findings.
In Communication
Use of techniques to convey messages.
Underlying messages or themes suggested.
Compare with Definitions
Application
A method of solving a problem.
The application of heat can fix the adhesive more effectively.
Implication
A likely consequence of an action.
The implication of the new law could restrict our operations.
Application
The action of putting something into operation.
The application of new policies improved workflow.
Implication
Something suggested without being explicitly stated.
The implication in his speech was clear to everyone.
Application
Relevance or pertinence.
His skills have direct application to the project.
Implication
Involvement or entanglement.
His implication in the scandal was unexpected.
Application
Software for a specific purpose.
She downloaded a meditation application on her phone.
Implication
A logical conclusion that can be drawn.
The implication from the data is that our efforts are working.
Application
A formal request or submission.
Her application for the job was submitted yesterday.
Implication
The act of implying or hinting.
Her tone carried the implication of disapproval.
Application
The act of applying.
Implication
The conclusion that can be drawn from something although it is not explicitly stated
The implication is that no one person at the bank is responsible
Application
Something applied, such as a cosmetic or curative agent.
Implication
The action or state of being involved in something
Our implication in the problems
Application
The act of putting something to a special use or purpose
An application of a new method.
Implication
The act of implicating or the condition of being implicated.
Application
A specific use to which something is put
The application of science to industry.
Implication
The act of implying or the condition of being implied.
Application
The capacity of being usable; relevance
Geometry has practical application in aviation and navigation.
Implication
An indirect indication; a suggestion.
Application
Close attention; diligence
Shows application to her work.
Implication
An implied meaning; implicit significance.
Application
A request, as for assistance, employment, or admission to a school.
Implication
An inference. See Usage Note at infer.
Application
The form or document on which such a request is made.
Implication
(uncountable) The act of implicating.
Application
(Computers) A computer program designed for a specific task or use.
Implication
(uncountable) The state of being implicated.
Application
Of or being a computer program designed for a specific task or use
Applications software for a missile guidance system.
Implication
(countable) A possible effect or result of a decision or action.
Application
The act of applying or laying on, in a literal sense
The application of this cream should reduce the swelling.
Implication
An implying, or that which is implied, but not expressed; an inference, or something which may fairly be understood, though not expressed in words.
Application
The substance applied.
Implication
The connective in propositional calculus that, when joining two predicates A and B in that order, has the meaning "if A is true, then B is true".
Application
The act of applying as a means; the employment of means to accomplish an end; specific use.
Implication
Logical consequence. en
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.
Implication
The act of implicating, or the state of being implicated.
Three principal causes of firmness are. the grossness, the quiet contact, and the implication of component parts.
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.
Implication
An implying, or that which is implied, but not expressed; an inference, or something which may fairly be understood, though not expressed in words.
Whatever things, therefore, it was asserted that the king might do, it was a necessary implication that there were other things which he could not do.
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.
Implication
Something that is inferred (deduced or entailed or implied);
His resignation had political implications
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.
Implication
A meaning that is not expressly stated but can be inferred;
The significance of his remark became clear only later
The expectation was spread both by word and by implication
Application
The act of requesting, claiming, or petitioning something.
Implication
An accusation that brings into intimate and usually incriminating connection
Application
Diligence; close thought or attention.
Implication
A logical relation between propositions p and q of the form `if p then q'; if p is true then q cannot be false
Application
A kind of needlework; appliqué.
Implication
A relation implicated by virtue of involvement or close connection (especially an incriminating involvement);
He was suspected of implication in several robberies
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
How do implications affect communication?
Implications can deeply affect communication by conveying messages or meanings that are not explicitly stated, requiring interpretation by the receiver.
What is an application in a professional context?
In a professional context, an application often refers to a formal request, such as for a job, or the practical use of skills and knowledge.
How are applications developed in technology?
Applications in technology are developed through programming and software engineering to fulfill specific functions or solve problems.
How do implications relate to understanding literature?
Understanding the implications in literature involves interpreting the suggested meanings or themes that are not directly stated, enhancing the depth of reading.
Can an application have implications?
Yes, the application of something, like a new technology, can have broader implications, such as changes in societal behavior or ethical considerations.
Are the implications of technological advancements always positive?
No, the implications of technological advancements can be both positive and negative, affecting society, ethics, and individual behaviors in various ways.
Is it possible for an application to be purely theoretical?
While applications are generally practical, theoretical applications can exist in conceptual or academic discussions, proposing how ideas could be applied in practice.
How does one identify an application in academic research?
In academic research, an application is identified as the practical use of theories or methodologies to conduct the research or solve a problem.
What is the difference between a direct statement and an implication?
A direct statement clearly expresses an idea or fact, while an implication suggests it indirectly, requiring inference.
Can the implications of a policy be predicted accurately?
Predicting the implications of a policy can be challenging due to various factors and can require extensive analysis and forecasting.
How is the application of knowledge different from acquiring knowledge?
Acquiring knowledge refers to learning or understanding new information, while its application involves using that knowledge practically to achieve specific outcomes.
Can an artistic work have implications?
Yes, artistic works often carry implications, suggesting themes, emotions, or critiques through symbolism and narrative techniques.
How do applications and implications relate to innovation?
Innovation involves the application of new ideas or technologies, which can then have broad implications for industries, cultures, and societies.
Can the implications of an action be controlled or managed?
While controlling the full range of implications can be difficult, understanding potential outcomes and planning can help manage some of the effects of an action.
How do legal documents address implications?
Legal documents often try to minimize unintended implications by being precise and explicit in language, though interpretation can still lead to implied meanings.
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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.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
