Understanding the subtle nuances of Spanish verbs can significantly improve your fluency and expressive capabilities in the language. Particularly, the verbs aplicar and aplicarse often confuse learners because of their similarity in form and relatedness in meaning. However, these verbs are used in different contexts and convey distinct meanings. This article will explore these differences and provide guidance on how to use each verb appropriately, enhancing your Spanish linguistic skills.

Distinguishing Between Aplicar and Aplicarse

Aplicar is a transitive verb generally used to mean “to apply” in the sense of applying something to something else. This could refer to physical application, like applying a substance to a surface, or more abstract uses such as applying a concept or rule.

Aplicarse, on the other hand, is a pronominal verb that implies applying oneself to a task or activity. It often carries a connotation of diligence and effort. Understanding the reflexive use of aplicarse is key to mastering its use.

Using Aplicar in Sentences

Aplicar is straightforward in its usage when you remember it typically requires a direct object — the thing being applied. Here’s how you can use aplicar in various contexts:

Voy a aplicar pintura a esta pared.
In this sentence, paint is being applied to a wall, demonstrating a literal application.

Es importante aplicar la ley de manera justa.
Here, “aplicar” is used in a more figurative sense, referring to the application of a law.

Debes aplicar más fuerza para abrir esa botella.
“Aplicar” is used to describe the exertion of force, another abstract form of application.

Using Aplicarse in Sentences

Aplicarse reflects the act of devoting or dedicating oneself to a task. This verb is reflective, meaning it always relates back to the subject performing the action. Here are a few instances of its use:

María se aplica en sus estudios para conseguir buenas notas.
Maria applies herself to her studies to achieve good grades, showing personal effort and dedication.

Si te aplicas en el trabajo, puedes conseguir una promoción.
This sentence encourages someone to dedicate effort in their job to gain a promotion.

Me estoy aplicando para aprender español.
Here, the speaker is putting effort into learning Spanish, using “aplicarse” to reflect personal dedication.

Common Mistakes and Confusions

One common error learners make is using aplicar when they mean aplicarse. Remember, if the action reflects personal effort or dedication towards improving oneself or accomplishing something, aplicarse is the correct choice.

Incorrect: Voy a aplicar en mis estudios.
Correct: Voy a aplicarme en mis estudios.

Another point of confusion arises with the English phrase “apply for,” as in applying for a job. In Spanish, this would not use either aplicar or aplicarse, but rather postularse or solicitar.

Tips for Remembering the Difference

To keep aplicar and aplicarse straight, think of aplicar as something you do to other things or concepts, and aplicarse as something you do to yourself, in a manner of speaking. Here’s a simple trick: associate the reflexive pronoun in aplicarse with looking back at oneself, which can remind you of its introspective or self-directed nature.

Conclusion

Mastering the use of aplicar and aplicarse can significantly enhance your Spanish communication, allowing you to express nuances of effort and application accurately. Remember, aplicar is for external applications, whereas aplicarse is for personal dedication and effort. With practice and attention to the context in which these verbs are used, you’ll find yourself applying them correctly and with confidence in your Spanish conversations and writings.