“Applied” is the past tense and past participle of the verb “apply,” which has multiple meanings such as to put to use, to request something formally, or to spread or rub a substance on a surface. Here are some synonyms and an analysis of their usage:
1. Utilized
- Meaning:
- “Utilized” emphasizes the practical use or employment of something for a particular purpose. It implies a conscious decision to make use of a resource, method, or tool to achieve a desired outcome. For example, “The company utilized new technology to increase productivity.” It shows that the company actively made use of the technology as a means to an end.
- Usage:
- Used in business (utilizing resources effectively), in scientific research (utilizing experimental methods), and in any context where the focus is on the practical application of something to gain an advantage or achieve a goal.
2. Employed
- Meaning:
- “Employed” also means to use or make use of something. It can have a slightly more formal or professional connotation and often implies a systematic or organized use. For example, “The chef employed a new cooking technique to enhance the flavor of the dish.” It gives the sense that the use is part of a planned or professional approach.
- Usage:
- Used in job - related contexts (employed skills), in academic writing (employed theories or concepts), and in any situation where there is a sense of using something in a purposeful and often professional manner.
3. Used
- Meaning:
- “Used” is a more general and commonly - used term for applying or making use of something. It can refer to a wide range of applications, from simple, everyday uses to more complex, technical uses. For example, “I used a calculator to solve the math problem.” It's a straightforward way to indicate the act of using a tool or resource.
- Usage:
- Used in a vast array of contexts, from personal descriptions (used a particular product), to technical explanations (used a specific software), and in any situation where the act of using something is being described.
4. Put to Use
- Meaning:
- “Put to use” is a phrasal verb that means to start using something that was previously idle or unused. It emphasizes the transition from a state of non - use to active use. For example, “She finally put her language skills to use during the international conference.” It implies a sense of taking advantage of an available resource.
- Usage:
- Used in various contexts such as personal development (putting one's talents to use), in business (putting new equipment to use), and in any situation where there is a focus on activating and using something that was previously not in use.
5. Exercised
- Meaning:
- When “applied” refers to the use of a skill, ability, or right, “exercised” can be a synonym. It means to put into action or practice. For example, “He exercised his right to vote.” It emphasizes the active implementation of a particular skill or right.
- Usage:
- Used in legal contexts (exercising legal rights), in fitness and health (exercising physical abilities), and in any situation where a skill, power, or right is being actively used.