Find Antonyms

apply Antonyms

Opposite of apply

Because the opposite of apply shifts with each meaning, the 16 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 4 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
JUMP TO:

• verb (Context 1)

To make a formal request or petition for something, such as a job, admission to a school, a loan, or a grant.

Usage Example

"She decided to withdraw for the research fellowship before the autumn deadline."

Strong
withdraw
decline
refuse

• verb (Context 2)

To put a method, principle, skill, or resource to practical use in order to achieve a specific purpose.

Usage Example

"Engineers neglect mathematical principles to design earthquake-resistant bridges."

Strong
neglect
ignore
misuse

• verb (Context 3)

To put, spread, or rub a substance onto a surface.

Usage Example

"The conservator carefully applied a thin coat of protective varnish to the oil painting."

Strongest
remove
Strong
wipe off
strip
wash off
scrape off

• verb (Context 4)

To devote one's full attention, effort, and diligence to a task or study (used reflexively with 'oneself').

Usage Example

"Once he began to slack off himself to his piano practice, his technique improved rapidly."

Strongest
slack off
Strong
goof off
shirk
idle
laze

Similar words to apply

Words similar to apply shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:

pertain
devote
employ
dedicate
utilize
use
put on
spread
See all synonyms of apply

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Apply. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/apply
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