applies only to

USAGE SUMMARY

"applies only to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this term to refer to something that exclusively applies to a particular situation or thing. For example: The limited warranty policy applies only to the original purchaser of the product.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Officially, the calculator applies only to Wellesley.

The New York Times

It applies only to those over 25.

The Guardian

Of course that applies only to Americans.

The New York Times

Maybe that applies only to black politicians.

The New York Times

It applies only to hand-held phones.

The New York Times

Thursday's move applies only to one brand.

The New York Times

His finding applies only to Arizona.

The New York Times

This applies only to career employees.

University of California, Berkeley

The new ban applies only to World Cup qualifying matches.

The New York Times - Sports

The law applies only to the five boroughs.

The New York Times

But the Edict applies only to events after 1935.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "applies only to", ensure that the context clearly defines what the restriction is, avoiding ambiguity about the scope of application.

Common error

Avoid implying a broader scope than intended; always specify exactly to what the phrase "applies only to" is limited. For example, instead of saying "This rule applies only to employees", clarify with "This rule applies only to employees in the marketing department."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "applies only to" functions as a restrictive modifier, limiting the scope or applicability of a statement, rule, or condition. It specifies to whom or what something is exclusively relevant, as supported by examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

21%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "applies only to" is a frequently used phrase that serves to restrict the applicability of a statement or rule to a specific subject. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across diverse contexts, especially in News & Media and Science. When using the phrase, be sure to define the restriction explicitly to avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives include "is restricted to" or "is solely relevant to". It is advisable to ensure the subject agrees in number to avoid the grammatical error of using "apply" when "applies" is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is exclusively applicable to

Emphasizes the exclusivity of the application more strongly.

is solely relevant to

Highlights the relevance and uniqueness of the application.

is restricted to

Focuses on the limitation or constraint of the application.

exclusively concerns

Shifts the focus to what the rule or statement is about.

is limited in scope to

Specifies that the application is confined within certain boundaries.

is uniquely pertinent to

Highlights the specific suitability of the application.

is specifically for

Indicates a designed purpose and target of the application.

solely affects

Focuses on the direct influence or impact.

is confined solely to

Stresses the restrictive nature of the application's boundaries.

is uniquely tied to

Highlights the strong and exclusive relationship to the application.

FAQs

How can I use "applies only to" in a sentence?

Use "applies only to" to specify that a rule, law, or condition is restricted to a particular situation, group, or object. For example, "This discount "applies only to" senior citizens" indicates that the discount is exclusively for seniors.

What phrases are similar to "applies only to"?

Alternatives include phrases such as "is restricted to", "is solely relevant to", or "is exclusively applicable to". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "apply only to" instead of "applies only to"?

The correct form depends on the subject of the sentence. Use "apply only to" for plural subjects (e.g., "These rules apply only to students"), and "applies only to" for singular subjects (e.g., "This rule "applies only to" faculty").

What is the difference between "applies only to" and "applies to only"?

"Applies only to" is the standard and more common construction. While "applies to only" might be understood, it is less grammatically conventional. Always use ""applies only to"" for clarity and correctness.