apply to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apply to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is relevant or applicable to a particular situation, person, or group. Example: "The new regulations will apply to all businesses operating within the city limits."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They apply to everybody".

The New York Times

They apply to arbitration.

The New York Times

Does this apply to wealth?

SEP

Similar remarks apply to adverbialism.

SEP

Select apply to all.

WikiHow

Do not apply to face.

WikiHow

Do not apply to much.

WikiHow

Then apply to your face.

WikiHow

Apply to dog's back.

The Guardian

Apply to uni directly.

The Guardian

Apply to World Trade Organisation".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "apply to", ensure the context is clear about what is being applied and to what it is being applied. For instance, "These rules apply to all employees" clearly states the rules and the target group.

Common error

Avoid vague statements like "This applies to everyone" without specifying what "this" refers to. Always clarify the subject matter to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apply to" functions primarily as a verb followed by a preposition, indicating that something has relevance or applicability to a specific subject, situation, or group. Ludwig examples show diverse applications, from rules applying to people to substances applying to surfaces.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

38%

News & Media

25%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "apply to" is a versatile and commonly used prepositional phrase that indicates relevance or applicability. It is grammatically correct and finds frequent use across various contexts, including Wiki, News & Media, and scientific writing. According to Ludwig, its function is to establish a relationship of relevance or impact between a subject and an entity. While the phrase is generally suitable for both formal and informal settings, ensuring clarity in its application is crucial. Alternatives such as "pertain to" and "be relevant to" can be used to add nuance or specificity. Understanding these insights ensures accurate and effective use of "apply to" in various writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make an application to

Implies a formal submission process, focusing on the action of applying.

submit an application to

Similar to "make an application to", but emphasizes the act of formally submitting something.

file an application to

Focuses on the act of officially lodging an application, often in a legal or administrative context.

implement to

Suggests putting something into effect or action, changing the focus from application to execution.

pertain to

Indicates relevance or connection, shifting the focus from direct application to relatedness.

be relevant to

Similar to "pertain to", emphasizing the importance or applicability of something.

apply to the requirements of

Adds specificity by highlighting that something must meet certain requirements

relate to

Indicates a connection or association, which is less direct than applying.

apply in the context of

Emphasizes the specific setting or situation where something is applicable.

apply under the regulations of

Highlights that an application is being made following specific regulatory guidelines.

FAQs

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

The phrase "apply to" indicates that something is relevant or applicable to a particular situation, person, or group. For example, "The discount doesn't "apply to" sale items."

What can I say instead of "apply to"?

You can use alternatives like "pertain to", "be relevant to", or "be applicable to" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "this applies for" instead of "this applies to"?

No, the correct preposition to use with "apply" in this context is "to". Therefore, "this applies to" is the grammatically correct phrasing.

How does "apply to" differ from "apply for"?

"Apply to" means something is relevant or has an effect on something else (e.g. "The rule "applies to" everyone"). "Apply for" means to make a formal request for something (e.g. "Apply for a job").