apply over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apply over" is not standard in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used in contexts where you want to indicate that something is being applied to a broader area or context, but it is not commonly used. Example: "You can apply over the entire surface to ensure even coverage."

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

He was finding it depressing to apply over the Internet for jobs.

The New York Times

The same dynamic will no doubt apply over the next four years.

The New York Times

Many states allow you to apply online, and some let you apply over the phone.

The New York Times - Health

"There are lessons to be learned from what is happening in America which we can apply over here," he said.

The Guardian

Higher rates apply over the year-end holiday period, and there is an additional $20-a-day 20-a-daytion fee.

The New York Times - Travel

Carl Bonuso, the Wantagh school district superintendent, said his district recently automated teacher recruitment, requiring candidates to apply over the district's Web site.

The New York Times

If you would like a copy of your file, you can write, phone or apply over the internet and your details will be sent to you by post.

The Guardian - Money

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

As this comparison is between populations with a known diagnosis, supervised imputation was a viable option and was investigated in an attempt to factor out the imbalance between data from patients with and without UC without the need to apply over- or under-sampling techniques, thus preserving the nature of the original data.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Apply over-the-counter artificial tears.

WikiHow

Apply over-the-counter topical cream if necessary.

WikiHow

Apply over-the-coutner antihistamine creams to the effected area.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "apply over", consider whether "apply across" or "apply throughout" might be clearer, especially in formal writing. Using clearer alternatives enhances readability.

Common error

Avoid using "apply over" in highly formal contexts where more precise verbs like "implement", "extend", or "cover" would be more appropriate and professional. This makes your writing more accurate and suitable for academic or business settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apply over" functions primarily as a phrasal verb. It indicates the action of spreading or implementing something across a defined space or duration. The phrase is used in a variety of contexts. Ludwig AI suggests potential ambiguity and notes the availability of clearer alternatives.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "apply over" is a common phrasal verb used to describe the action of spreading or implementing something across a surface, area, or duration. While commonly used in various contexts, from news and media to scientific literature, Ludwig AI suggests it may lack precision in some instances. More formal alternatives like "apply across", "extend over", and "implement across" may be preferred in academic or professional settings. The phrase's frequency and broad applicability make it understandable, but careful consideration of context is essential for clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

apply across

Focuses on the spatial distribution of the application.

extend over

Highlights the spatial or temporal reach of something.

implement across

Emphasizes the practical execution over a range.

spread over

Suggests a more diffused or even distribution.

coat with

Focuses on covering a surface with a substance.

overlay with

Describes placing one thing on top of another.

govern over

Indicates the application of rules or control.

rule over

Similar to 'govern over', emphasizing authority.

blanket with

Highlights comprehensive coverage, often figuratively.

enforce across

Emphasizes the active application of rules or laws broadly.

FAQs

What does "apply over" mean?

"Apply over" generally means to spread or implement something across a surface, area, or duration. The phrase is sometimes used to indicate that something is being added on top of something else.

What can I say instead of "apply over"?

You can use alternatives like "apply across", "extend over", or "implement across" depending on the specific context.

Is "apply over" grammatically correct?

While "apply over" is commonly used, some consider it less formal. In academic and professional writing, more precise alternatives may be preferred.

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

You might say, "Apply the cream over the affected area" or "These rules apply over the entire department". Consider alternatives like "apply to" or "cover" for greater clarity.