aplicarvssolicitar
/ah-plee-CAR/
/so-lee-see-TAR/
💡 Quick Rule
Use `solicitar` for jobs & applications. Use `aplicar` to put something on, like lotion or a rule.
You `solicitar` with a `solicitud` (an application form). You `aplicar` `ap`pointment (ointment).
- In some regions, 'aplicar a un trabajo' is becoming common due to English influence, but 'solicitar' is always the more standard and correct choice.
📊 Comparison Table
| Context | aplicar | solicitar | Why? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Job Hunting | Apliqué la pomada. | Solicité el trabajo. | For jobs, always use `solicitar`. `Aplicar` refers to putting on a substance, which makes no sense here. |
| University | Apliqué la teoría a un caso real. | Solicité admisión a la universidad. | `Aplicar` a theory is to put it into practice. `Solicitar` admission is to formally ask to be accepted. |
| Rules & Laws | La ley se aplica a todos. | Solicité un permiso especial. | A law `aplica` (applies to/is enforced on) people. You `solicitar` (request) a permit under that law. |
✅ When to Use "aplicar" / solicitar
aplicar
To put something on a surface; to enforce or implement a rule or theory.
/ah-plee-CAR/
Putting on a substance
Me voy a aplicar protector solar.
I'm going to apply sunscreen.
Implementing a rule or method
El profesor aplicó una nueva regla en clase.
The teacher applied a new rule in class.
Administering something
La enfermera me aplicó la inyección.
The nurse gave me the injection.
solicitar
To formally request something; to apply for a job, visa, loan, etc.
/so-lee-see-TAR/
Applying for a job
Voy a solicitar el puesto de gerente.
I'm going to apply for the manager position.
Requesting a document or service
Tuve que solicitar una nueva visa.
I had to apply for a new visa.
Formally asking for something
Solicitaron ayuda del gobierno.
They requested help from the government.
🔄 Contrast Examples
With "aplicar":
Esta regla no se aplica aquí.
This rule doesn't apply here. (It's not in effect.)
With "solicitar":
No puedes solicitar el puesto aquí.
You can't apply for the job here. (This isn't the place to submit an application.)
The Difference: `Aplicar` is about whether a rule or concept is relevant or can be implemented. `Solicitar` is the action of formally requesting something.
With "aplicar":
El doctor me aplicó una crema.
The doctor applied a cream on me.
With "solicitar":
Tuve que solicitar una cita con el doctor.
I had to request an appointment with the doctor.
The Difference: `Aplicar` is the physical action of putting something on you. `Solicitar` is the administrative action of asking for something.
🎨 Visual Comparison
`Aplicar` is for putting things ON. `Solicitar` is for putting in an application.
⚠️ Common Mistakes
Voy a aplicar para el trabajo.
Voy a solicitar el trabajo.
This is a classic false friend from English. When 'to apply' means filling out an application for a job, school, or visa, the correct Spanish verb is `solicitar`.
Solicita la pintura en una capa fina.
Aplica la pintura en una capa fina.
When you are physically putting a substance onto a surface (like paint, cream, or a sticker), you must use `aplicar`.
📚 Related Grammar
Want to understand the grammar behind this pair? Explore these lessons for a deep dive:
🏷️ Key Words
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: Aplicar vs Solicitar
Question 1 of 3
You want to get a new job. What do you say?
🏷️ Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'aplicar para un trabajo' so common if it's wrong?
It's a direct translation from English ('apply for a job') and is a very common mistake among English speakers. Due to its frequent use, some native speakers in areas with a lot of English influence have started using it, but it's considered an Anglicism. 'Solicitar' is the standard, correct term accepted everywhere.
How do I say 'apply yourself' in Spanish, like 'you need to apply yourself in school'?
Neither 'aplicar' nor 'solicitar' works here. For this meaning, you would use verbs like 'esforzarse' (to make an effort) or 'dedicarse' (to dedicate yourself). For example: 'Necesitas esforzarte más en la escuela'.