1
general::
Phrase(s): apply to someone or something
[for rules, laws, etc.] to affect someone or something; to be relevant to someone or something. • Does this rule apply to me? • These policies apply only to very large companies., Phrase(s): apply oneself to something
to work hard and diligently at something. • You should apply yourself to your studies. • She applied herself to her work and the time passed very rapidly., Phrase(s): apply something to something
1. Lit. to put something onto the surface of something. • Apply the decal to the surface of the glass. • Apply the paint evenly to each surface. 2. Fig. to use something, such as force, effort, etc., on something or in the performance of some task. • Apply more effort in your school work. • An even greater effort has been applied to make sure we finish on time.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs