applies to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "applies to" is correct and usable in written English as a way to indicate that a statement or concept is relevant in a particular situation.
For example: This discount applies to all items in the store.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Buck applies to Lawrenceville.

The New Yorker

applies to history.

The New Yorker

Same applies to pouches.

The New Yorker

This applies to everyone".

The New York Times

This also applies to presidents.

The Guardian - Opinion

Same applies to public spaces.

The Guardian

This question applies to everyone.

The New York Times

The same applies to design.

The New York Times - Arts

That even applies to dessert.

The New York Times - Food

The law applies to everyone.

The New York Times

The same applies to people.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "applies to", ensure the subject and object are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "This applies to everyone", specify "This rule applies to all employees."

Common error

Avoid using "applies to" in overly broad statements that lack specific context. For instance, avoid saying "This applies to everything" without further clarification. Instead, identify specific areas or situations where it is relevant.

Linguistic Context

Connective. The phrase "applies to" functions as a connective, linking a subject (a rule, law, or concept) to the entity or group to which it is relevant. Ludwig confirms that this phrase accurately indicates applicability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "applies to" is a versatile connective used to indicate relevance or applicability. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. When writing, ensure clear subject-object relationships and avoid overgeneralization. While "applies to" is often interchangeable with phrases like "is relevant to" and "is applicable to", it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is relevant to

Focuses on the relevance of something rather than its direct application.

is applicable to

Highlights the suitability of something for a particular situation or subject.

pertains to

Indicates a connection or relevance to a specific matter.

is pertinent to

Emphasizes the direct relevance and importance of something.

holds true for

Suggests that a statement or principle is valid or correct in a particular case.

is true of

Indicates that a characteristic or statement accurately describes something.

relates to

Broadly connects something to a particular subject or area.

is connected to

Suggests a link or association between two things.

is associated with

Highlights a common connection or relationship.

is in relation to

Indicates a comparative connection between two things.

FAQs

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

Use "applies to" to indicate that a rule, concept, or statement is relevant or applicable in a particular situation. For example, "This discount "applies to" all items in the store."

What are some alternatives to "applies to"?

You can use alternatives such as "is relevant to", "is applicable to", or "pertains to" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "applies to" and "is applicable to"?

While both phrases are similar, "is applicable to" emphasizes suitability for a specific situation, whereas ""applies to"" generally indicates relevance or direct application. Choose the phrase that best fits the intended meaning.

When is it better to use "pertains to" instead of "applies to"?

"Pertains to" is best used when indicating a connection or relevance to a specific subject or matter, especially in formal contexts, while ""applies to"" suggests a more direct and practical application.