apply to something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apply to something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of making a request or submitting an application for a specific purpose or opportunity. Example: "I decided to apply to the scholarship program to further my education."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"You cannot say that federal regulations don't apply to something just because no one knew about the technology at the time," Mr. Gold said.

The New York Times

"But it also taught me that I had a capacity for hard graft that I knew I'd rather apply to something apart from growing vegetables".

The Guardian - Arts

GourmetMale (@GourmetMale) @triplej #hottest100 keep it coming! pic.twitter.com/EeHRzA2Xtt January 26 , 20143.44am GMT Helen says that "folky but slightly earnest" could apply to Something for Kate's entire back catalogue.

The Guardian

"You cannot say that federal regulations don't apply to something just because no one knew about the technology at the time," said Laurence C. Gold, associate general counsel for the A.F.L.-C.I.O.

The New York Times

— GourmetMale (@GourmetMale) January 26 , 2014@triplej #hottest100 keep it coming! pic.twitter.com/EeHRzA2Xtt Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 2.44pm AEST03:44 Helen says that "folky but slightly earnest" could apply to Something for Kate's entire back catalogue.

The Guardian

Now, as chief medical officer, she savors being in charge, especially "being able to think creatively, to have individual concepts you can actually apply to something".

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The notion of "authenticity" when applied to something like period music is really a rather silly idea.

The Guardian

We see it as the value's still there, it just has to be applied to something different".

The New York Times - Arts

If only this could be applied to something other than achieving full employment in the halls of the Capitol.

The New York Times

The concept probably applies to something really off the forecasting charts, like Madonna's making a good movie or Albany's passing a budget on time.

The New York Times

This is a polished, innovative and -- if such a term can be applied to something as nerdy as an operating system -- exciting upgrade.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "apply to something", ensure that the 'something' is clearly defined and relevant to the context. This prevents ambiguity and strengthens the clarity of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "apply to something" in overly broad or vague contexts. Be specific about what is being applied and to what it is being applied to maintain precision and avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apply to something" functions as a verb phrase, indicating that a rule, concept, or method is relevant or suitable for a particular situation, object, or idea. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "apply to something" is a grammatically sound and versatile expression used to denote relevance or applicability. Ludwig AI confirms this observation by highlighting its presence across diverse sources. While not exceedingly frequent, its usage is consistent and appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, particularly in news, science, and business domains. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what is being applied and to what, avoiding overgeneralizations for more precise communication. Consider using alternatives like "be relevant to something" or "pertain to something" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be relevant to something

Focuses on the pertinence or applicability of a concept or idea.

pertain to something

Emphasizes a direct connection or relationship.

be applicable to something

Highlights the suitability of a rule or principle.

extend to something

Suggests a broader reach or scope of influence.

be used for something

Focuses on the function or purpose of an object or idea.

be employed for something

Emphasizes the active use of a method or resource.

relate to something

Indicates a connection, often in a broader or more general sense.

be adaptable to something

Stresses the ability to be modified for a particular purpose.

have bearing on something

Implies an influence or impact on a particular issue.

be appropriate for something

Highlights the suitability or fitness for a specific context.

FAQs

How do I use "apply to something" in a sentence?

Use "apply to something" to indicate that a concept, rule, or method is relevant or suitable for a particular situation or object. For example: "The same principles apply to something new".

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

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

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

Yes, "applies to something" is correct when the subject is singular. For example, "This rule applies to something specific."

What is the difference between "applied to something" and "apply to something"?

"Applied to something" indicates a past action, whereas "apply to something" indicates a present or future action. For example: "The method was applied to something previously" versus "We need to apply this method to something new".