applies to both

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "applies to both" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that a certain rule, condition, or statement is relevant to two subjects or items. Example: "The new policy applies to both employees and contractors, ensuring everyone follows the same guidelines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

This applies to both sides.

The Guardian

"It applies to both parties".

The New York Times

The court order applies to both".

The New York Times

"I think that applies to both sides".

The New York Times - Sports

This applies to both colleagues and managers.

The New York Times

That applies to both sides equally.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

You are welcome to apply to both.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The United States wants it to apply to both.

The New York Times

But principles of good writing apply to both.

The New Yorker

The new American policy will apply to both.

The New York Times

But the same freedom of movement rules apply to both.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "applies to both", ensure the context clearly defines the two subjects being referenced to avoid ambiguity. For example, "This rule applies to both new and existing customers."

Common error

Avoid using "applies to both" without clearly specifying what it applies to. A lack of clarity can confuse the reader and weaken your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "applies to both" serves as a connector indicating that a certain rule, condition, or statement is relevant to two subjects. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in English. The examples demonstrate its function in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

24%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "applies to both" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to indicate that a rule, condition, or statement is relevant to two specific entities. According to Ludwig AI, it’s a standard and appropriate phrase in English writing. It appears most commonly in News & Media and Academia sources, suggesting broad applicability. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by explicitly stating what it applies to. Alternative phrases include "is relevant to both" and "pertains to both". By following best practices and avoiding vague references, writers can effectively use this phrase to convey inclusivity and avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Is relevant to both

Replaces "applies" with "is relevant", focusing on the pertinence rather than the action of applying.

Pertains to both

Substitutes "applies" with "pertains", indicating a direct relationship or connection.

Is applicable to both

Replaces "applies" with "is applicable", emphasizing the capacity to be applied.

Concerns both

Uses "concerns" instead of "applies", highlighting the involvement or interest of both parties.

Affects both

Emphasizes the impact or influence on each of the two elements.

Holds true for both

Indicates that a statement or principle remains valid for each subject.

Is valid for both

Similar to "holds true", but focuses on the legitimacy or correctness of something for each case.

Encompasses both

Suggests that something includes or covers each element.

Relates to both

Highlights the connection or association with each of the items.

Is connected to both

Indicates a link or relationship exists for each of the two items.

FAQs

How do I use "applies to both" in a sentence?

Use "applies to both" when you want to indicate that something is relevant or applicable to two distinct entities. For instance, "The discount "is valid for both" online and in-store purchases".

What can I say instead of "applies to both"?

You can use alternatives like "is relevant to both", "pertains to both", or "is applicable to both" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "applies to both" and "applies to each"?

"Applies to both" indicates that something is relevant to two specific items, while "applies to each" suggests relevance to every item in a group, even if there are more than two.

Is it correct to say "applies to both of"?

While grammatically acceptable, it is often more concise and natural to omit "of". "Applies to both" is generally preferred. For example, "This rule pertains to both employees and managers".