"涂抹"的英文表达是 "apply"，它来自拉丁语 "applicare"，意思是"紧贴"、"使贴近"。比如：

Please apply the ointment to the wound.

请把药膏涂抹到伤口上。

She applied the makeup carefully.

她小心地涂抹化妆品。

He applied for a job at the company.

他向公司申请了一份工作。