Apply vs. Implement — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 14, 2024
Apply involves the use of ideas, methods, or knowledge in a practical context, while implement is the execution or carrying out of a plan or tool.
Difference Between Apply and Implement
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Applying a concept typically means using theoretical knowledge or principles in real-world scenarios, aiming to achieve specific outcomes or understand situations better. Whereas, implementing refers more directly to the action of executing a predefined plan or using specific tools or procedures to achieve a practical result.
When you apply for a job, you are utilizing your skills and knowledge to try and secure a position. On the other hand, implementing a new hiring process at a company involves setting up actual systems and protocols that will be used in hiring.
Scientists apply research findings to support or refute academic theories, thereby expanding the field's knowledge base. Conversely, they implement these findings in technology or medicine by creating new products or treatments that directly affect people's lives.
In education, teachers apply learning theories to understand and enhance how students absorb information. However, they implement specific teaching strategies or tools, like educational software or structured lesson plans, to practically improve learning outcomes.
In software development, a programmer applies algorithmic concepts to solve problems or optimize tasks. Implementing, however, involves writing and deploying code that actualizes these algorithms in functioning software applications.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Use of ideas or knowledge practically.
Execution of a plan or procedure.
Context
Theoretical, broader in use.
Practical, specific in application.
Focus
Understanding or adaptation.
Action or execution.
Example Field
Academia, job application.
Business plans, technology.
Outcome
Insight or opportunity realization.
Tangible changes or achievements.
Compare with Definitions
Apply
To make relevant or use in an appropriate context.
You can apply this theory to many economic models.
Implement
To carry out, execute, or perform some action.
Implement the emergency procedures immediately.
Apply
To use a substance or material to a surface.
Apply the paint evenly across the wall.
Implement
To put into action according to a plan or procedure.
We need to implement the new software across all departments.
Apply
To exert or bring to bear.
Apply pressure to the wound to stop the bleeding.
Implement
To bring about or effect by means of a plan.
The new policies regarding sustainability need to be implemented carefully.
Apply
In mathematics and computer science, apply is a function that applies a function to arguments. It is central to programming languages derived from lambda calculus, such as LISP and Scheme, and also in functional languages.
Implement
To start using a tool or instrument for its intended purpose.
Implement the new gardening tools for the upcoming planting season.
Apply
Make a formal application or request
A number of people have applied to vote by proxy
You need to apply to the local authority for a grant
Implement
A tool, utensil, or other piece of equipment that is used for a particular purpose
Garden implements
Apply
Be applicable or relevant
Normal rules apply
Prices do not apply to public holiday periods
Implement
Performance of an obligation.
Apply
Put or spread (a substance) on a surface
The sealer can be applied to new wood
Implement
Put (a decision, plan, agreement, etc.) into effect
The scheme to implement student loans
Apply
Give one's full attention to a task; work hard
For two years, she applied herself to her studies with dedication
Implement
A tool, utensil, or other piece of equipment used in doing work
A gardening implement.
Apply
To bring into contact with something; put on
Applied glue sparingly to the paper.
Implement
An article used to outfit or equip someone
Ecclesiastical implements.
Apply
To put to or adapt for a special use
Applies all her money to her mortgage.
Implement
A means of achieving an end; an instrument or agent.
Apply
To put into action
Applied the brakes.
Implement
To put into practical effect; carry out
Implement the new procedures.
Apply
To engage (oneself) in a task with close attention or persistence
Applied myself to my studies.
Implement
To supply with implements.
Apply
To be pertinent or relevant
A rule that applies to everyone.
Implement
To bring about; to put into practice; to carry out.
It’s a good thought, but it will be a difficult thing to implement.
Apply
To request or seek assistance, employment, or admission
Applied for unemployment benefits.
Will apply to college next year.
Implement
A tool or instrument for working with.
They carried an assortment of gardening implements in the truck.
Apply
(transitive) To lay or place; to put (one thing to another)
To apply cream to a rash
Implement
That which fulfills or supplies a want or use; esp., an instrument, tool, or utensil, as supplying a requisite to an end; as, the implements of trade, of husbandry, or of war.
Genius must have talent as its complement and implement.
Apply
(transitive) To put to use; to use or employ for a particular purpose, or in a particular case
To apply funds to the repayment of a debt
Implement
To accomplish; to fulfill.
Revenge . . . executed and implemented by the hand of Vanbeest Brown.
Apply
(transitive) To make use of, declare, or pronounce, as suitable, fitting, or relative
We need to apply the skills we've learned to solve this problem
Implement
To provide with an implement or implements; to cause to be fulfilled, satisfied, or carried out, by means of an implement or implements.
The chief mechanical requisites of the barometer are implemented in such an instrument as the following.
Apply
(transitive) To put closely; to join; to engage and employ diligently, or with attention
Implement
To fulfill or perform, as a contract or an engagement.
Apply
(transitive) To address; to refer; generally used reflexively.
Implement
Instrumentation (a piece of equipment or tool) used to effect an end
Apply
(intransitive) To submit oneself as a candidate (with the adposition "to" designating the recipient of the submission, and the adposition "for" designating the position).
I recently applied to the tavern for a job as a bartender.
Most of the colleges she applied to were ones she thought she had a good chance of getting into.
Many of them don't know it, but almost a third of the inmates are eligible to apply for parole or work-release programs.
Implement
Apply in a manner consistent with its purpose or design;
Implement a procedure
Apply
(intransitive) To pertain or be relevant to a specified individual or group.
That rule only applies to foreigners.
Implement
Ensure observance of laws and rules;
Apply the rules to everyone
Apply
(obsolete) To busy; to keep at work; to ply.
Implement
Pursue to a conclusion or bring to a successful issue;
Did he go through with the treatment?
He implemented a new economic plan
She followed up his recommendations with a written proposal
Apply
(obsolete) To visit.
Implement
To ensure that something is done as agreed or designed.
Implement the terms of the agreement without any deviations.
Apply
Alternative spelling of appley
Apply
To lay or place; to put or adjust (one thing to another); - with to; as, to apply the hand to the breast; to apply medicaments to a diseased part of the body.
He said, and the sword his throat applied.
Apply
To put to use; to use or employ for a particular purpose, or in a particular case; to appropriate; to devote; as, to apply money to the payment of a debt.
Apply
To make use of, declare, or pronounce, as suitable, fitting, or relative; as, to apply the testimony to the case; to apply an epithet to a person.
Yet God at lastTo Satan, first in sin, his doom applied.
Apply
To fix closely; to engage and employ diligently, or with attention; to attach; to incline.
Apply thine heart unto instruction.
Apply
To direct or address.
Sacred vows . . . applied to grisly Pluto.
Apply
To betake; to address; to refer; - used reflexively.
I applied myself to him for help.
Apply
To busy; to keep at work; to ply.
She was skillful in applying his "humors."
Apply
To visit.
And he applied each place so fast.
Apply
To suit; to agree; to have some connection, agreement, or analogy; as, this argument applies well to the case.
Apply
To make request; to have recourse with a view to gain something; to make application. (to); to solicit; as, to apply to a friend for information.
Apply
To ply; to move.
I heard the sound of an oar applying swiftly through the water.
Apply
To apply or address one's self; to give application; to attend closely (to).
Apply
Put into service; make work or employ (something) for a particular purpose or for its inherent or natural purpose;
Use your head!
We only use Spanish at home
I can't make use of this tool
Apply a magnetic field here
This thinking was applied to many projects
How do you utilize this tool?
I apply this rule to get good results
Use the plastic bags to store the food
He doesn't know how to use a computer
Apply
Be pertinent or relevant or applicable;
The same laws apply to you!
This theory holds for all irrational numbers
The same rules go for everyone
Apply
Ask (for something);
He applied for a leave of absence
She applied for college
Apply for a job
Apply
Apply to a surface;
She applied paint to the back of the house
Put on make-up!
Apply
Be applicable to; as to an analysis;
This theory lends itself well to our new data
Apply
Give or convey physically;
She gave him First Aid
I gave him a punch in the nose
Apply
Avail oneself to;
Apply a principle
Practice a religion
Use care when going down the stairs
Use your common sense
Practice non-violent resistance
Apply
Ensure observance of laws and rules;
Apply the rules to everyone
Apply
Refer (a word or name) to a person or thing;
He applied this racial slur to me!
Apply
Apply oneself to;
Please apply yourself to your homework
Apply
To formally request or seek a position or status.
She decided to apply for the scholarship.
Apply
To put something into operation or effect.
Apply the brakes gently when you're driving on ice.
Common Curiosities
What is the difference between applying a concept in science and implementing it in technology?
Applying a concept in science often involves theoretical exploration or experimentation, whereas implementing it in technology focuses on practical application and problem-solving.
What are some common tools or systems that need implementation in a workplace?
Common tools or systems that require implementation include new software, operational procedures, and compliance protocols.
How do you implement a new business strategy effectively?
Effective implementation of a new business strategy involves clear planning, resource allocation, and consistent monitoring and adjustment based on feedback.
Is applying for a job the same as implementing a job search strategy?
No, applying for a job is an action taken as part of a job search strategy, whereas implementing a job search strategy involves planning and executing various activities like networking, resume customization, and interviewing.
What does it mean to apply something in a professional context?
Applying something professionally means using specific knowledge, skills, or theories to enhance job performance or solve work-related problems.
Can you apply theoretical knowledge without implementing it?
Yes, one can apply theoretical knowledge to improve understanding or guide decision-making without necessarily implementing it in a practical context.
When should a company apply a policy versus implement a policy?
A company applies a policy when deciding how it fits into broader organizational goals or addressing specific issues; it implements a policy by putting it into action and ensuring compliance across the organization.
How does a teacher apply versus implement educational theories?
A teacher applies educational theories to understand how students learn and adapt their teaching methods, while they implement specific instructional strategies and tools to directly facilitate learning.
What does it mean to apply a law compared to implementing a law?
Applying a law involves interpreting its relevance or applying it to particular cases, whereas implementing a law refers to the process of enforcement and the creation of systems to uphold the law.
Can you apply software updates or do you implement them?
Software updates are typically implemented, meaning the updates are installed and made active on the system, as opposed to just being applied conceptually.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
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.
