applicator

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "applicator" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in several contexts, such as referring to a device used for applying a substance to something, as in "She used an applicator to apply the medication to her skin." It can also be used as a verb meaning "to apply" (similar to the verb "apply"), as in "He applicated the bandage to the wound."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The result is a picture which fills in the blank part of the user's visual field.The chips themselves are easy to implant, using a special syringe-like applicator that is pushed through the eyeball (a routine procedure, gruesome though it sounds).

The Economist

Brushes were the fibrous ends of chewed or frayed sticks, small feather bundles, pieces of wood, and sometimes the most elementary applicator of all, the finger.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Typically, the applicator is a chisel-shaped blade with a pipe mounted on its rear side to conduct the ammonia five to six inches (13 to 15 centimetres) below the surface.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In Java, by the mid-18th century, a small copper crucible with a handle and narrow applicator spout for applying the wax came into use, producing a much more elaborately patterned cloth; a further Javanese innovation was the wood-block wax applicator introduced in the 19th century.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Les Tai Tai, £20, Selfridges, 0800 123 400 3. Ball Sponge This unique spherical sponge applicator sweeps over the contours of your face to work the foundation into your skin seamlessly, leaving no sharp lines un-softened.

Independent

1 Tropiques Minerale: All Over Magic Bronzing Brush, Shade 05 This modern, practical applicator can be taken anywhere.

Independent

"The best way to go about washing your windows is to use a squeegee and an applicator with some warm soapy water," says Guy. "Go in a horizontal fashion from one side to another, then use the back of the applicator, following the same pattern, to remove all the dirt and grime.

Independent

If an app knocks our socks off, we're happily devote column inches to it, but a super-absorbent tampon with a groovy new applicator?

Independent

£24 for 5.9g, bobbibrown.co.uk 7. Becca Radiant Skin Creamy Concealer A seriously smooth texture, this is so easy to blend and glides on like a dream with its click and dispense brush applicator.

Independent

Mostly it's architects who ponder this, but Ruskin averred that no one could be an architect who was not a supremely sure draughtsman, as well as a proper applicator of paint.

Independent

The physician's finger, a cotton applicator, or a paintbrush may be used for testing sensations of light touch; steel or glass tubes filled with warm and cold water for temperature; a pin for superficial pain and scratch sensation; a tuning fork for vibration; and gentle movement of a finger up or down outside the patient's range of vision for the sense of passive joint movement.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific "applicator", specify its type (e.g., "foam applicator", "brush applicator") to provide clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using overly generic terms like "thing" or "device" when a more specific descriptor of the "applicator" is available. Precision enhances understanding.

Linguistic Context

The word "applicator" functions primarily as a noun, referring to a tool or device designed for applying a substance. Ludwig indicates its correct usage in various contexts. It is used to describe objects ranging from makeup sponges to industrial tools.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "applicator" is a common and grammatically correct noun that refers to a tool or device used for applying substances. Ludwig's examples show its widespread use across news, encyclopedias, and other sources. Understanding the specific type of "applicator" is crucial for clarity. Common errors include using overly generic terms instead of specifying the type of "applicator". While "applier" is a synonym, "applicator" is preferred when referring to the tool itself. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and usability of the word in different contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

application tool

Replaces "applicator" with a more general term describing a tool used for application.

dispensing device

Focuses on the act of dispensing a substance rather than just applying it.

spreading instrument

Emphasizes the action of spreading a substance across a surface.

coating implement

Highlights the purpose of applying a coating to something.

delivery system

Broadens the concept to include the entire system involved in delivering a substance.

placement mechanism

Focuses on the mechanical aspect of placing a substance.

application method

Shifts the focus from the tool to the method of applying a substance.

transfer apparatus

Highlights the function of transferring a substance from one place to another.

administration device

Used primarily in medical or pharmaceutical contexts to describe a device used for administering a substance.

implement for applying

A more verbose but descriptive alternative to "applicator".

FAQs

How to use "applicator" in a sentence?

You can use "applicator" to describe a tool used for applying substances, as in "She used a foam applicator to apply the sunscreen evenly."

What can I say instead of "applicator"?

You can use alternatives like "application tool", "dispensing device", or "spreading instrument" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "applicator" or "applier"?

"Applicator" is generally preferred when referring to a tool, while "applier" is more commonly used to describe a person. Both words are synonyms, though.

What's the difference between "applicator" and "dispenser"?

While both involve distributing a substance, an "applicator" is typically used for applying it to a surface, while a "dispenser" /s/distributor is a container or device designed to release a controlled amount of something.