application
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application
A computer program or an app for a smartphone, tablet, or computer that was developed for a specific function. In everyday language, the short form 'App' is used almost exclusively.
Für die Videobearbeitung nutze ich eine spezielle Application auf meinem Laptop.
For video editing, I use a special application on my laptop.
You can recognize the meaning from the context. If it is about computers, software, or smartphones, it means a program. If it is about a job, studies, or a scholarship, it means an application.
Ich muss eine neue Application auf meinem Handy installieren.
I have to install a new application on my phone.
In the meaning 'Computerprogramm' (computer program), 'Application' is used mainly in very technical or specialist IT contexts. It sounds much more formal and specific than the short form.
Die IT-Abteilung entwickelt eine neue Application für die Buchhaltung.
The IT department is developing a new application for accounting.
When 'Application' means 'Bewerbung' (application), it is used almost exclusively in an international context, e.g. for jobs or university places abroad. It signals a connection to the English-speaking world.
Seine Application für die Harvard University war erfolgreich.
His application to Harvard University was successful.
In the meaning 'Bewerbung' (application), the word is often combined with verbs such as 'einreichen' (submit), 'ausfüllen' (fill out), or 'schreiben' (write).
Bis wann müssen wir die Application für das Stipendium einreichen?
By when do we have to submit the application for the scholarship?
program
'das Programm' and 'die Application' can both mean software or an app. 'Programm' is the normal and broad term in German, especially for software on a computer. 'Application' is an English-influenced word and usually means an app or application for a smartphone, tablet, or computer. In everyday language, people usually say 'App' for this, not 'Application'. Learners may confuse the words because both are technically similar. If you want to speak natural German, 'Programm' is often appropriate; for phone applications, 'App' is usually more natural than 'Application'.
Die neue Application verbindet das Handy mit dem Fitnessarmband.
The new application connects the phone to the fitness tracker.
Das Programm speichert die Termine automatisch im Kalender.
The program automatically saves the appointments in the calendar.