aplicar

Senses

1. 1.

   to apply

   to put something onto a surface or into use

2. 2.

   to administer

   to give a dose, injection, test, or punishment

3. 3.

   to invest

   to put money into an investment or financial product

4. 4.

   to apply oneself

   to dedicate effort or attention (used reflexively: aplicar-se)

Examples

• "A enfermeira aplicou a vacina no braço dele."

  The nurse administered the vaccine in his arm.

• "Vou aplicar meu dinheiro na poupança."

  I'm going to invest my money in savings.

• "Você precisa aplicar protetor solar antes de sair ao sol."

  You need to apply sunscreen before going out in the sun.

Usage

Very common verb with broad usage. In financial contexts, "aplicar" specifically means to invest money (aplicar dinheiro, fazer uma aplicação). The reflexive form "aplicar-se" means to dedicate oneself or work hard at something. Common collocations: aplicar uma prova (give a test), aplicar uma multa (issue a fine), aplicar um golpe (pull off a scam).