applies

USAGE SUMMARY

"applies" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is used as a verb meaning to be relevant or appropriate in a given situation. For example: "This rule applies to everyone in the company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Family would appreciate that their earlier appeal re privacy applies to Carole and family too".

The Guardian

The same applies to Bulgaria, while Serbia, the Serbian half of Bosnia and Macedonia are all being wooed or intimidated by the Russians.

The Guardian

The new cap applies to anyone receiving an out-of-work benefit, including jobseeker's allowance and employment and support allowance, which is paid to people with disabilities.

The Guardian

That said, he believes the fundamental law of karma applies not only to humans, but also to companies, he added.

The Guardian

Each student will be given the opportunity to talk about their desires and fears and their past writing experience (if it applies), and their literary tastes.

The Guardian

"This applies in all circumstances, regardless of whether local laws state that girls are considered adult when they marry".

The Guardian

The exemption also applies to campaigns related to "consumer protection" but Colbeck said he would not be seeking to change that provision.

The Guardian

A friend or colleague amasses a tremendous amount of knowledge in some arcane or specialized field and mistakenly thinks this proficiency applies to everything.

The Guardian - Opinion

The same thought applies to the violation of legal and political standards.

The Guardian - Opinion

Network Rail said: "As a politically neutral organisation, we do not allow political activity on our stations and this applies to any forms of advertising or campaigning.

The Guardian

It applies to England and replaces a host of out-of-date and often confusing care laws.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "applies", ensure the subject to which it refers is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "This applies", specify "This rule applies to all employees".

Common error

Avoid assuming that if something "applies" in one context, it automatically applies in another. Always verify the applicability in each specific situation.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "applies" is as a verb in the third-person singular present tense. It indicates that a rule, principle, or condition is currently relevant or applicable to a specific situation or subject. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

32%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "applies" functions as a verb to denote the relevance or applicability of something, such as a rule or principle, to a specific context. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, highlighting its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It is most frequently found in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Scientific contexts, maintaining a neutral register. To ensure clarity, it's essential to specify the subject and avoid assuming automatic applicability across different situations. Alternative phrases like "is relevant" and "is applicable" can be used depending on the desired nuance. "Applies" is a versatile and commonly used term, making it crucial to understand its proper usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is relevant

Focuses on the direct relevance of something to a specific context.

is applicable

Highlights the potential for something to be applied or used in a given situation.

is in effect

Indicates that a rule, law, or agreement is currently operational and binding.

holds true

Emphasizes the continuing validity or accuracy of a statement or principle.

is pertinent

Stresses the direct connection and importance of something to the matter at hand.

is enforced

Highlights the active implementation and upholding of a rule or law.

is in force

Similar to "is in effect", but often used for laws and regulations.

is operative

Indicates that something is functioning or having an effect.

is brought to bear

Focuses on the application of influence or pressure.

is put into practice

Highlights the actual implementation of a plan or idea.

FAQs

How to use "applies" in a sentence?

Use "applies" to indicate that something is relevant or applicable to a particular situation or person. For example, "This discount only applies to students".

What can I say instead of "applies"?

You can use alternatives like "is relevant", "is applicable", or "is in effect" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "applies to" or "applies for"?

"Applies to" is generally the correct usage when indicating who or what something affects. "Applies for" is used when someone is making a request, like "applies for a job".

What's the difference between "applies" and "adheres"?

"Applies" means to be relevant or pertinent, while "adheres" means to stick to or follow closely. A rule "applies", but one "adheres" to a rule.