Apply the law

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Apply the law" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in contexts where you are instructing someone to implement or enforce legal principles or regulations. Example: "In this case, the judge must apply the law fairly to ensure justice is served."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Apply the law to sternly punish the dissemination of harmful information". Microbloggers reacted with predictable disdain.

The Guardian

You have to apply the law".

The New York Times

We will apply the law robustly".

The Guardian - Opinion

I've been asked to apply the law.

The New York Times - Magazine

They also think judges should apply the law impartially.

The Economist

It is to apply the law," she said.

The Economist

And so it's my job to apply the law.

The Economist

We apply the law and are committed to it".

The New York Times

How prosecutors apply the law varies from county to county.

The New York Times

They hear the evidence, then apply the law.

The Guardian

It is to apply the law," Sotomayor said.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about legal obligations, use "apply the law" to emphasize the impartial and consistent implementation of rules and regulations. This ensures clarity and avoids ambiguity in your communication.

Common error

Avoid implying that applying the law is subjective or open to personal interpretation. Stress that it should be done objectively and consistently, based on established legal principles.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Apply the law" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating the action of implementing or enforcing legal principles. Ludwig examples showcase its usage in contexts where legal standards are put into practice. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "Apply the law" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that emphasizes the implementation and enforcement of legal principles. Ludwig's analysis confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts, especially in news and media. The phrase generally maintains a neutral to professional register and is sourced from authoritative publications. Related phrases include "enforce the law" and "implement the law", each with slightly different nuances. To use this phrase effectively, focus on maintaining objectivity and stressing consistent application, while avoiding implications of subjective interpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Enforce the law

Focuses on the act of compelling obedience to the law, often implying authority and power.

Implement the law

Emphasizes the practical execution and putting the law into effect.

Administer the law

Suggests managing and overseeing the application of the law within a system.

Execute the law

Highlights the carrying out of the law, often in a more forceful or official manner.

Uphold the law

Indicates supporting and maintaining the integrity and validity of the law.

Adhere to the law

Stresses compliance and following the law, often in a personal or organizational context.

Abide by the law

Similar to "adhere to", but implies a sense of obligation and respect for the law.

Apply legal standards

Focuses on using specific legal criteria or benchmarks in a decision-making process.

Give effect to the law

Emphasizes the realization and practical impact of the law in specific situations.

Discharge justice

This implies implementing the law in a fair way.

FAQs

How do you use "Apply the law" in a sentence?

To use "Apply the law" in a sentence, consider the context of enforcing regulations or making decisions based on legal principles. For example, "The judge must "apply the law" fairly to ensure justice is served."

What does it mean to "Apply the law"?

To ""apply the law"" means to implement and enforce legal principles and regulations in a consistent and impartial manner, ensuring that rules are followed and justice is served.

What can I say instead of "Apply the law"?

You can use alternatives like "enforce the law", "implement the law", or "administer the law" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "Apply the law" or "Make the law"?

"Apply the law" refers to implementing existing legal principles, while "Make the law" refers to creating new laws. The correct phrase depends on whether you're discussing enforcement or legislation.