apply to both

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apply to both" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to rules, conditions, or characteristics that are relevant to two or more subjects or items. Example: "The new regulations apply to both employees and contractors, ensuring compliance across the board."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

rule should apply to both leagues.

The New York Times - Sports

The same techniques apply to both settings.

Journal of Functional Analysis

Further, the new laws apply to both sexes.

The Guardian

The guidelines would apply to both young children and teenagers.

The New York Times

These results apply to both day-time and nightime predictions.

Journal of Atmospheric and Solar-Terrestrial Physics

Applicants may apply to both programs in the same year.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

You do not need to apply to both programs.

Columbia University

General guidelines apply to both types of information.

Harvard University

The new rules apply to both existing workers and potential new recruits.

The Guardian - Money

"I know what will work are the things that apply to both places.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

This applies to both sides.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "apply to both", ensure clarity by specifying exactly which items or subjects the phrase refers to. This prevents ambiguity and strengthens the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "apply to both" without clearly defining what 'both' refers to. Ensure the context makes it obvious to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apply to both" functions as a prepositional phrase, indicating the relevance or applicability of something to two distinct entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and usable English phrase. It often connects a subject (like rules, laws, or recommendations) to multiple objects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "apply to both" is a grammatically correct and frequently used prepositional phrase that indicates the relevance of something to two distinct entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted in English writing. Its neutral register and versatility make it appropriate for various contexts, from news and media to academic and scientific writing. To ensure clarity, it's best to specify what 'both' refers to, avoiding vague references. While alternatives like "pertain to both" or "are relevant to both" can be used, "apply to both" remains a clear and effective choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pertain to both

More formal; implies relevance or connection to multiple items.

applicable to both

Highlights the suitability or appropriateness for multiple cases.

refer to both

Indicates a direct reference or connection to two or more subjects.

relevant to both

Focuses on the pertinence and importance to multiple entities.

extend to both

Suggests an expansion or continuation affecting multiple areas.

affect both

Indicates an influence or impact on two or more things.

cover both

Implies encompassing or including multiple items within a scope.

encompass both

Similar to 'cover both', but suggests a more complete inclusion.

valid for both

Highlights the correctness or legitimacy for multiple situations.

hold true for both

Emphasizes the accuracy or reliability across multiple subjects.

FAQs

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

Use "apply to both" to indicate that a rule, principle, or condition is relevant or applicable to two distinct entities. For example: "These rules "apply to both" civilian and military personnel."

What's a formal alternative to "apply to both"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "pertain to both" or "are applicable to both". These options maintain a professional tone while conveying the same meaning. For example: "These regulations "pertain to both" domestic and international transactions."

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

You can use alternatives such as "extend to both", "cover both", or "are relevant to both" depending on the context. These options provide variety while retaining semantic similarity. For example: "The warranty "covers both" parts and labor."

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

Yes, but the correct form depends on the subject. Use "apply to both" when the subject is plural or refers to a general rule. Use "applies to both" when the subject is singular. Example: "This rule "applies to both" new and existing customers." vs "These rules "apply to both" individuals and businesses."