apply vs denote

apply and denote both are verbs.

Word	Noun	Adjective	Verb	Adverb
apply	No	No	Yes	No
denote	No	No	Yes	No

As verbs, denote is a hypernym of apply; that is, denote is a word with a broader meaning than apply:

Other hypernyms of apply include refer.

apply (verb)	denote (verb)
ask (for something)	have as a meaning
refer (a word or name) to a person or thing	be a sign or indication of
put into service; make work or employ for a particular purpose or for its inherent or natural purpose	make known; make an announcement
coat, cover or smear a surface with
give or convey physically
avail oneself to
ensure observance of laws and rules
apply oneself to
be pertinent or relevant or applicable
be applicable to; as to an analysis