Meaning & use

applied knowledge

noun·Academic

Last updated

UK/əˈplaɪd ˈnɒlɪdʒ/
US/əˈplaɪd ˈnɑːlɪdʒ/

Meanings

  1. noununcountable

    Knowledge that is put to practical use in real situations, rather than just known in theory.

    Grammar: No plural: say 'applied knowledge', not 'applied knowledges'.

    Patterns

    • applied knowledge of something
    • put knowledge into practice
    • use applied knowledge

    The course gives students applied knowledge they can use at work.

    Her applied knowledge of chemistry helped solve the problem quickly.

    Employers value applied knowledge more than memorized facts.

  2. noununcountable

    The kind of understanding gained by doing something, not just by reading or studying.

    Grammar: Often used with 'gain', 'acquire', or 'demonstrate'.

    Patterns

    • gain applied knowledge
    • demonstrate applied knowledge

    Internships let students gain applied knowledge in their field.

    The exam tests applied knowledge, not just definitions.

Common combinations

applied knowledge and skills
The program focuses on applied knowledge and skills for the workplace.
practical application of knowledge
The project shows the practical application of knowledge in engineering.
gain applied knowledge
You gain applied knowledge through hands-on experience.

Synonyms and how they differ

practical knowledge
Very close in meaning; 'applied knowledge' often suggests formal training or theory put to use.
know-how
More informal and focuses on skill; 'applied knowledge' can include understanding why something works.

Opposites

theoretical knowledgeabstract knowledge

Word family

apply verb
To put something to practical use.
applied adjective
Used in a practical way.
knowledgeable adjective
Having a lot of knowledge.

Commonly confused: applied knowledge or theoretical knowledge?

applied knowledge vs theoretical knowledge

Theoretical knowledge is understanding ideas and principles, while applied knowledge is about using them in practice.

Practice

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