Is "app" more common than "application"?

Yes. For phones and tablets, "app" is much more common in everyday English.

Can I use "app" in formal writing?

Yes, if you mean software for phones or computers. It is normal in business and tech writing.

What is the difference between an app and software?

An app is usually one program for a specific task. Software is a broader word for computer programs.

← Dictionary

app

/æp/

IELTSAcademic

noun

A program for a phone, tablet, or computer that does a specific job. It is short for "application".

I use a budgeting app every day.
This app helps me book taxis.
She downloaded a new study app.

Adinary Nuance

App is shorter and more modern than application. In everyday speech, people usually say app for phone software, while application sounds more formal or technical. If you are talking about a desktop form or a job application, application may be the better word.

In other languages

Vietnamese: ứng dụng
Spanish: aplicación
Chinese: 应用程序
Japanese: アプリ
Korean: 앱

Etymology

"App" is a shortened form of "application." It became very common in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, especially with smartphones.

Common phrases

mobile appapp storemessaging appapp update

Synonyms

application program software

Related words

download install platform interface

Frequently asked questions

Is "app" more common than "application"?: Yes. For phones and tablets, "app" is much more common in everyday English.
Can I use "app" in formal writing?: Yes, if you mean software for phones or computers. It is normal in business and tech writing.
What is the difference between an app and software?: An app is usually one program for a specific task. Software is a broader word for computer programs.