Aplicada

Aplicada is the feminine form of the past participle of aplicar, and it functions as an adjective or participle in Spanish. It generally conveys that something has been put to use or carried out, and it can also describe a practical orientation when referring to fields of study or work.

Etymology and grammar

The word comes from the verb aplicar, which traces to Latin roots meaning to fasten or attach. As the feminine participle, aplicada agrees in gender and number with feminine nouns, for example: una solución aplicada, técnicas aplicadas, ideas aplicadas. In contrast, aplicado is used with masculine nouns and can also function as a standalone adjective meaning diligent or industrious in informal contexts.

Uses and meanings

- Applied or used in practice: “una técnica aplicada” or “solución aplicada” indicate that something has been employed or implemented.

- In education and science: “ciencias aplicadas” (applied sciences), “investigación aplicada” (applied research), “educación aplicada” (applied education). This contrasts with “ciencias básicas” or “investigación básica,” which denote foundational or theoretical work.

- Diligence or studiousness: “una estudiante aplicada” describes someone who is hardworking and attentive in her studies.

- Regulatory or technical contexts: in phrases like “métodos aplicados” or “normas aplicadas,” the term emphasizes practical application of standards or procedures.

Related terms

Related forms include aplicado (masculine form), aplicación (the act of applying or a software application), y aplicable (capable of being applied). Applieda is not a proper noun in standard usage, though regional terms and names can vary.

In summary, aplicada denotes something that has been applied or is oriented toward practical use, and it also describes someone who is diligent when used to refer to a person.