adjective
Very common
applied
uh-PLYD
Applied (adjective) means Put into practical, real-world use, rather than purely theoretical. Example: “He took an applied physics course so he could build working machines.”
adjective
1
Put into practical, real-world use, rather than purely theoretical.
"He took an applied physics course so he could build working machines."
"She studied applied mathematics rather than pure theory."
"The lab focuses on applied research with commercial uses."
How to use applied
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes knowledge or a skill that's used practically, not just studied in theory.
Common pairings
applied science
applied linguistics
practical, applied knowledge
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He took an _____ physics course so he could build working machines.
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Rhymes for applied
See all rhymes for applied →Frequently asked questions
What does “applied” mean?
The word “applied” means put into practical, real-world use, rather than purely theoretical. In plain terms, describes knowledge or a skill that's used practically, not just studied in theory.
How do you pronounce “applied”?
“Applied” is pronounced uh-PLYD (/əˈplaɪd/ in IPA).
How do you use “applied” in a sentence?
Here is “applied” used in a sentence: “She studied applied mathematics rather than pure theory.”
What part of speech is “applied”?
“Applied” is an adjective.
Is “applied” a common word?
“Applied” is a very common word in modern English.
What is the difference between applied and theoretical?
Applied means put to practical, real-world use, aimed at solving actual problems. Theoretical deals with ideas, principles, and understanding for their own sake, without a direct practical goal. Applied science develops technologies and cures; theoretical science explores why things work. The two feed each other, but differ in purpose and immediacy.
What is the difference between applied and pure mathematics?
Pure mathematics studies concepts and structures for their own sake, driven by logic and curiosity. Applied mathematics uses those ideas to solve real problems in fields like engineering, physics, finance, and computing. Pure asks what is true; applied asks how it can be used. Much overlaps, and pure results often become useful later.
What is an example of applied?
Applied science, applied mathematics, and applied research are common examples. An engineer using physics to design a bridge is doing applied work, as is a psychologist using research to improve classroom teaching. In each case, established theory is put to practical use to achieve a concrete, real-world result.
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