Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
applied to
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"applied to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where someone has taken an action which is relevant to a particular situation or object. For example, "The new rules have been applied to her job contract, significantly changing the terms of employment."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Encyclopedias
Alternative expressions(20)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
It applied to everything.
News & Media
I applied to four colleges.
News & Media
The Delians applied to Plato.
Encyclopedias
I applied to graduate school.
News & Media
Dirigisme, applied to airy aspirations.
News & Media
A lower floor applied to young people.
News & Media
The one applied to Ms Sahlin?
News & Media
In 2004, Qadhi applied to Yale.
News & Media
The same applied to birds and waterfowl.
News & Media
Officials said it applied to 950 sites.
News & Media
Meanings can be applied to it.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "applied to", ensure the subject and object are logically connected. For instance, say "the theory applied to the data", not "the data applied to the theory" unless the data is actively modifying the theory.
Common error
Avoid confusing "applied to" (past tense, indicating something has been done) with "apply to" (present tense, indicating an action to be taken). For example, use "He applied to the university" to mean he submitted an application, and "The principles applied to the situation" to mean they were relevant in the past.
Source & Trust
87%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "applied to" functions as a verb phrase + preposition combination. It commonly indicates the act of utilizing or implementing something in a specific context. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, with numerous examples demonstrating its use in various sentences.
Frequent in
News & Media
35%
Science
30%
Encyclopedias
10%
Less common in
Formal & Business
8%
Wiki
7%
Reference
5%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "applied to" is a versatile and grammatically correct expression used to indicate relevance, implementation, or connection across various contexts. As Ludwig AI validates, it’s widely employed in news, science, and encyclopedic sources. To effectively use "applied to", ensure that the subject and object are logically related, and avoid confusion with similar phrases like "apply to". By understanding these nuances, writers can confidently integrate "applied to" into their work, enhancing clarity and precision.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
applicable to
Highlights that something can be appropriately used or implemented in a specific context.
relevant to
Focuses on the pertinence or suitability of something in relation to a particular subject or situation.
implemented in
Indicates the action of putting a plan or system into effect within a certain area or context.
utilized for
Emphasizes the use of something for a specific purpose or application.
adapted for
Suggests that something has been modified to suit a new purpose or condition.
related to
Denotes a general association or link, without specifying the nature of the connection.
pertaining to
Highlights a direct relationship or connection with a particular subject or matter.
connected with
Indicates an association or link, often suggesting a broader relationship.
directed at
Highlights that something is aimed or intended for a specific target or purpose.
attributed to
Indicates that something is regarded as being caused by or linked to a particular person or thing.
FAQs
How is "applied to" used in a sentence?
"Applied to" indicates that something has been used or implemented in a specific context. For instance, "This rule "applied to" all students" means the rule was in effect for all students.
What's a synonym for "applied to"?
Alternatives for "applied to" include "relevant to", "applicable to", or "utilized for", depending on the specific context.
What's the difference between "apply to" and "applied to"?
"Apply to" is the infinitive form, meaning to make a request or be relevant, while "applied to" is the past tense, indicating that something was made relevant or a request was submitted. For example, "You must "apply to" the program" versus "He "applied to" the program last week".
Is it correct to say "the concept applied to the data"?
Yes, it's correct. It means the concept was used to analyze or understand the data. However, ensure the relationship is logical; the concept should be influencing the data, not the other way around.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
87%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested