Applied linguistics is the interdisciplinary field that focuses on the practical application of language studies. It examines how linguistic theories can be used to solve real-world problems related to language, such as language teaching, translation, and language policy. Researchers in applied linguistics often explore areas like second language acquisition, sociolinguistics, and language assessment. By integrating insights from various disciplines, applied linguistics aims to improve communication and understanding in diverse contexts, including education, healthcare, and international relations.