"applied to" vs "applied on"

Question

"applied to" vs "applied on"

Both 'applied on' and 'applied to' are commonly used phrases in English, but they are used in different contexts. 'Applied on' is used when something is physically placed on a surface, while 'applied to' is used when something is used for a specific purpose or directed towards something.

Last Updated: March 23, 2024

Use 'applied to' when describing the action of using something for a specific purpose or directing something towards a target. For example, 'The principles can be applied to various situations.'

Examples:

The theory can be applied to real-life scenarios.
The same rule can be applied to all cases.
The solution was applied to the existing problem.

Alternatives:

used for
implemented in
utilized in
employed for
put into practice in

Use 'applied on' when describing the action of physically placing something on a surface. For example, 'The sticker was applied on the wall.'

Examples:

The paint was applied on the canvas.
The bandage was applied on the wound.
The label was applied on the package.

Alternatives:

placed on
attached to
stuck on
put on
affixed to

Answer 1

applied to

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to using something for a specific purpose or directing something towards a target.

Answer 2

applied on

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to physically placing something on a surface.

"applied to" vs "applied on"

applied to

applied on

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