apply force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apply force" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to physics, mechanics, or any situation where physical strength or pressure is exerted on an object. Example: "To move the heavy box, you need to apply force in the opposite direction of its weight."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Where can you apply force?

The New Yorker

The jaws of this machine apply force to the closed shell pistachio until it opens.

Computers and Electronics in Agriculture

"Since they can't apply force to the ground, they have to manipulate their surroundings in order to propel their bodies".

The New York Times - Sports

The trick is not to rush into Mali, but to apply force as part of a coherent military and political plan.

The Economist

In fact, the Pope's prior reasonableness was due in part to his lack of success in getting anyone to apply force.

The New Yorker

Gimzewski and Rao use the ultrasharp tip of an atomic-force microscope probe to apply force to single cells and measure the resistance.

MIT Technology Review

Kerry led the administration's counterargument that the United States should apply force that is "proportional" to the threat at hand, participants said.

The Washington Post

And, lest skeptics think that the officers with cameras are selective about which encounters they record, Mr. Farrar noted that those officers who apply force while wearing a camera have always captured the incident on video.

The New York Times

By contrast, officers in the 111th Precinct in the Bayside neighborhood of Queens, which is 87 percent white and Asian, were the least likely to apply force, using it in 4.7 percent of stops.

The New York Times

Traditionally, physical therapists apply force to a limb manually: A group of therapists, for example, will help a patient walk on a treadmill by moving the legs and steadying the patient.

MIT Technology Review

We are not dealing with a glass ceiling in pharma -- glass shatters if you apply force.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical processes, use "apply force" to clearly indicate the action of exerting strength or pressure on an object. For instance, "apply force to the lever to lift the object."

Common error

Avoid using "apply force" when a more suitable term like 'exert influence' or 'exercise authority' would better convey abstract concepts. For example, instead of saying "apply force to change the policy", consider "exert influence to change the policy".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apply force" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of exerting physical strength or pressure on an object. Ludwig examples show its usage in both literal and technical contexts. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

29%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

8%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "apply force" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the action of exerting physical strength or pressure. As shown by Ludwig, it appears frequently in scientific, news, and general instructional contexts. While versatile, it's important to select a more specific term, such as "exert pressure" or "exercise authority", when precision is needed. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, making it a reliable choice for clear and accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exert pressure

Focuses on the application of pressure rather than general force.

bring to bear

Indicates the direction of effort toward a specific goal or target.

wield power

Emphasizes the control and influence exerted, often in a figurative sense.

exert influence

Highlights the act of affecting something or someone.

exercise authority

Implies a formal or legal right to use power.

put forth effort

Focuses on the exertion of energy and resources.

bring into play

Suggests introducing a factor or element into a situation.

put in motion

Emphasizes the initiation of movement or activity.

bring about change

Highlights the intention to cause transformation or alteration.

set in action

Stresses the initiation of a series of events or processes.

FAQs

How can I use "apply force" in a sentence?

The phrase "apply force" is used to describe the action of exerting physical strength or pressure on an object or system. For example, "You need to "apply force" to the door to open it", or "The machine "applies force" evenly across the surface".

What are some alternatives to "apply force"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "exert pressure", "bring to bear", or "exercise authority". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "applied force" instead of "apply force"?

Yes, "applied force" is the past tense and past participle of "apply force". Use "applied force" when referring to a force that was exerted in the past. For example, "The "applied force" caused the object to move."

What's the difference between "apply force" and "apply pressure"?

While similar, "apply force" is a more general term referring to any exertion of strength. "Apply pressure" specifically refers to exerting a continuous or compressive force. Thus, "apply pressure" is a more specific application of "apply force".