Application vs. App: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Updated on November 10, 2023
Application refers to a computer program designed to perform specific tasks; an app is often used informally and typically refers to software used on mobile devices.
Key Differences
In a conventional sense, the term "Application" typically refers to software designed to help the user perform singular or multiple related tasks. Whether it be managing databases, creating documents, or editing photos, an application has historically been seen as a robust tool with varied utilities. The term can imply a level of comprehensiveness and often is utilized in a more formal or professional context.
Contrarily, "App" tends to evoke thoughts of mobile applications, often downloadable via a digital distribution platform like Google Play or the App Store. Apps can be seen as more user-friendly, accessible, and specific in functionality compared to broader applications. Historically, apps might have been perceived as simpler or offering more singular, specific functionality, but contemporary usage shows apps can be just as robust and complex as traditional software applications.
Yet, the lines between "Application" and "App" have significantly blurred in recent years. It's not uncommon to hear a full-fledged software suite on a computer referred to as an app, paralleling a gradual shift in digital nomenclature. "Application" remains useful in illustrating comprehensive software, but "App" has increasingly become a colloquial umbrella term that encapsulates both mobile and desktop software.
Interestingly, "App" might sometimes imply a more modern or recent tool, due to its prevalent use during the rise of mobile technology. “Application”, with its fuller form, can be seen as a term that may imply a more traditional or legacy tool. However, these implications are subtle and are often overlooked in daily language usage, demonstrating the contemporary near-interchangeability of the two terms.
Comparison Chart
Formality
Generally more formal
Typically less formal
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Common Usage
Traditionally on computers
Commonly used on mobile
Implication of Scope
Can imply broad functionality
Might imply specificity
Length & Tradition
Longer word, older usage
Shorter, more modern usage
User Interface
Sometimes complex
Often user-friendly
Application and App Definitions
Application
The act of putting something into operation.
The application of brakes stopped the car immediately.
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App
A program or tool used in digital devices for defined utilities.
The photo-editing app on his phone allows him to enhance images easily.
Application
The act of applying something to a surface.
The application of paint to the wall refreshed its look.
App
Digital software available for download on a virtual store.
You can download the gaming app from the App Store.
Application
The dedication of someone’s knowledge or effort towards a particular activity.
His application to study resulted in remarkable academic achievements.
App
Software designed for a specific purpose, typically user-friendly.
She downloaded a weather app to check the forecast.
Application
The act of applying.
App
A software program that is designed and developed for mobile devices.
WhatsApp is a popular messaging app.
Application
Something applied, such as a cosmetic or curative agent.
App
An abbreviation of the word "application."
Please close all running apps before shutting down the computer.
Application
The act of putting something to a special use or purpose
An application of a new method.
App
A computer application.
Application
A specific use to which something is put
The application of science to industry.
App
An application (program), especially a small one designed for a mobile device.
Application
The capacity of being usable; relevance
Geometry has practical application in aviation and navigation.
App
(military) application use, purpose; not a computer program
Application
Close attention; diligence
Shows application to her work.
App
Application (to a college etc.)
Application
A request, as for assistance, employment, or admission to a school.
App
(informal) appetizer
Application
The form or document on which such a request is made.
App
(sports) an appearance in a game (e.g., a player with 10 apps in a season played 10 times)
Application
(Computers) A computer program designed for a specific task or use.
Application
Of or being a computer program designed for a specific task or use
Applications software for a missile guidance system.
Application
The act of applying or laying on, in a literal sense
The application of this cream should reduce the swelling.
Application
The substance applied.
Application
The act of applying as a means; the employment of means to accomplish an end; specific use.
Application
The act of directing or referring something to a particular case, to discover or illustrate agreement or disagreement, fitness, or correspondence.
I make the remark, and leave you to make the application.
The application of a theory to a set of data can be challenging.
Application
(computing) A computer program or the set of software that the end user perceives as a single entity as a tool for a well-defined purpose. (Also called: application program; application software.)
This iPhone application can connect to most social networks.
Application
A verbal or written request for assistance or employment or admission to a school, course or similar.
December 31 is the deadline for MBA applications.
Application
A petition, entreaty, or other request, with the adposition for denoting the subject matter.
Their application for a deferral of the hearing was granted.
Application
The act of requesting, claiming, or petitioning something.
Application
Diligence; close thought or attention.
Application
A kind of needlework; appliqué.
Application
(obsolete) Compliance.
Application
The act of applying or laying on, in a literal sense; as, the application of emollients to a diseased limb.
Application
The thing applied.
He invented a new application by which blood might be stanched.
Application
The act of applying as a means; the employment of means to accomplish an end; specific use.
If a right course . . . be taken with children, there will not be much need of the application of the common rewards and punishments.
Application
The act of directing or referring something to a particular case, to discover or illustrate agreement or disagreement, fitness, or correspondence; as, I make the remark, and leave you to make the application; the application of a theory.
Application
That part of a sermon or discourse in which the principles before laid down and illustrated are applied to practical uses; the "moral" of a fable.
Application
The capacity of being practically applied or used; relevancy; as, a rule of general application.
Application
The act of fixing the mind or closely applying one's self; assiduous effort; close attention; as, to injure the health by application to study.
Had his application been equal to his talents, his progress might have been greater.
Application
The act of making request of soliciting; as, an application for an office; he made application to a court of chancery.
Application
A request; a document containing a request; as, his application was placed on file.
Application
A verbal or written request for assistance or employment or admission to a school;
December 31 is the deadline for applications
Application
The act of bringing something to bear; using it for a particular purpose;
He advocated the application of statistics to the problem
A novel application of electronics to medical diagnosis
Application
A program that gives a computer instructions that provide the user with tools to accomplish a task;
He has tried several different word processing applications
Application
The work of applying something;
The doctor prescribed a topical application of iodine
A complete bleach requires several applications
The surface was ready for a coating of paint
Application
Liquid preparation having a soothing or antiseptic or medicinal action when applied to the skin;
A lotion for dry skin
Application
A diligent effort;
It is a job requiring serious application
Application
A software tool designed to perform specific tasks.
Microsoft Word is an application used for word processing.
Application
A formal request to an authority.
She submitted her application for the new passport today.
FAQs
Can "application" mean a physical form or document?
Yes, "application" can refer to a formal request or document, like a job application.
Is "application" synonymous with "app"?
In the context of software, "app" is often a shortened form of "application." However, "application" has broader meanings beyond software.
Can "application" refer to something other than software?
Yes, "application" can also mean the act of applying or a formal request, among other definitions.
What's the origin of the word "app"?
"App" is a shortened form of "application," which has been used to refer to software since the late 20th century.
What's the difference between a web app and a mobile app?
A web app runs through a browser, often on various devices, while a mobile app is specifically designed for mobile devices.
Are all apps found on smartphones?
No, while many associate "apps" with smartphones, they can also be on computers, tablets, smart TVs, and other devices.
Are all apps considered software applications?
Yes, all apps are software applications, but not all software applications are colloquially referred to as "apps."
Can the word "application" be used in a medical context?
Yes, "application" can refer to the act of applying something, like the application of a bandage.
Can "application" refer to dedication or hard work?
Yes, "application" can mean dedication or attentiveness in undertaking a task.
Is an "app" always a standalone software?
No, an "app" can be standalone or a part of a larger software system.
What does "application" mean in the context of mathematics?
In math, "application" often refers to the practical use or implementation of a mathematical concept.
Can "application" mean the act of spreading or applying something?
Yes, it can refer to the act of putting on or spreading something, like the application of paint.
Is "app" a formal term?
"App" is a colloquial abbreviation of "application." In formal contexts, "application" might be preferred.
Can the term "application" refer to the use of a concept or idea?
Yes, "application" can mean the act of putting something into operation or the practical use of a concept.
Can "application" be used in a legal context?
Yes, "application" can mean a formal request, as in an application to a court.
How did "app" become a popular term?
The rise of smartphones and app stores in the 2000s popularized the term "app."
Can an "app" function offline?
Yes, some apps can function without an internet connection, though features might be limited.
Is every application on the App Store or Google Play Store considered an "app"?
Yes, software products on platforms like the App Store or Google Play Store are colloquially known as "apps."
Can both "application" and "app" be used in a business setting?
Yes, both terms can be used in a business context, though the choice may depend on the specific context and audience.
Are apps only for entertainment or can they be utilitarian?
Apps can serve a variety of purposes, from entertainment to productivity, education, health, and more.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
