apply
verb (used with object)
to make use of as relevant, suitable, or pertinent.
were applying
-
past progressiveof apply.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“They were applying enough pressure and urgency and back and forth to where it’s like an emotional roller coaster,” he said.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 9, 2026
In February 2026, more cardholders were applying for credit-limit increases compared with two years earlier, Federal Reserve Bank of New York data show, and lenders were more likely to approve those requests.
From MarketWatch ● Jun. 16, 2026
Among 10 software companies she studied with industry experts, Burdis concluded that most were pretty safe from AI obsolescence, and many were applying the new technology themselves.
From Barron's ● Apr. 15, 2026
But lawyers acting on behalf of the family said there was room to challenge decisions about funding for James, and they were applying for a judicial review.
From BBC ● Dec. 3, 2024
There was an excitement in the air, as some were applying to a program at Yale that allowed them to skip their senior year in high school.
From "Bad Boy" by Walter Dean Myers
