applying a lot

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "applying a lot" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the frequency or intensity of applying something, such as a method, technique, or resource. Example: "In our research, we found that applying a lot of effort leads to better results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

Those equations predict that applying a lot of effort to an established epidemic will have little initial effect.

The Economist

When he opened the Sentinel in May 2008, Mr. Leary took care to restore the establishment, applying a lot of elbow grease and uncovering old cigar signs and other original details.

The New York Times

Another of those selected, Genette Sekse, 22, said she found the unconventional way of applying "a lot more appealing than writing a cover letter or sending a résumé." "And it was fun checking out the competition," she added.

The New York Times

I say shallow because, besides applying a lot of state-of-the-art theories of emotion and computing with a pretty powerful motivation framework called OpenPsi, we also need physiology modeling.

The New York Times

Ralalason said that from his SRI experience he had learned the value of applying a lot of compost to his soil, so he had put large amounts of compost on his maize field (about 8 x 10 meters).

Cornell University

Now Google is applying a lot of those learnings in a bunch of new updates for its contact center tools.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

"We applied a lot of these logics and principles to a coding club.

The Guardian

"I can apply a lot of things from what they said.

The New York Times - Sports

"You have to apply a lot of knowledge and talent, and proceed with care".

The New York Times - Arts

"It turned out that we can apply a lot those techniques to code breaking," Dr. Knight said.

The New York Times - Science

I also got to apply a lot of things I learned in class.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "applying a lot", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being applied and to what effect. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the sentence's meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "applying a lot" without specifying what is being applied. For example, instead of saying "We are applying a lot to this project", specify what resources, strategies, or effort are being used.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "applying a lot" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to indicate the act of dedicating considerable resources, effort, or methods towards a specific goal. As confirmed by Ludwig, this usage is grammatically correct and widely applicable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "applying a lot" is a versatile verb phrase that signifies the act of dedicating significant resources, effort, or methods. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, predominantly in News & Media, Academia, and Wiki sources. While generally neutral in register, more formal alternatives may be preferable in academic or highly professional settings. It's essential to specify what is being applied to avoid vagueness, enhancing clarity and impact. Thus, while acceptable, mindful usage strengthens communication, as reported by Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

putting a considerable amount

Focuses on the quantity or degree of something being applied or invested.

devoting significant effort

Emphasizes the dedication and energy expended in a particular task or endeavor.

investing heavily

Highlights the financial or resource commitment involved in a specific action or project.

using extensively

Indicates a widespread or comprehensive application of a method, tool, or resource.

employing substantially

Suggests a significant utilization of resources or strategies in a given situation.

exerting considerable energy

Highlights the amount of effort being produced.

dedicating ample resources

Focuses on the amount of resources dedicated to a specific cause or activity.

implementing broadly

Implies a wide-ranging or comprehensive implementation of a policy, system, or practice.

administering copiously

Highlights the large amounts that are being handled.

giving it your all

Stresses the complete dedication and effort applied to a task or goal.

FAQs

How can I use "applying a lot" in a sentence?

You can use "applying a lot" to describe the extent to which a resource, method, or effort is being used. For example, "The company is "applying a lot" of resources to develop the new product".

What are some alternatives to "applying a lot"?

Alternatives to "applying a lot" include phrases like "using extensively", "investing heavily", or "devoting significant effort", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "applying a lot of effort" or "putting in a lot of effort"?

Both phrases are correct, but "applying a lot of effort" often implies a strategic or deliberate approach, whereas "putting in a lot of effort" can simply mean working hard.

Can "applying a lot" be used in formal writing?

While "applying a lot" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives such as "utilizing extensively" or "employing substantially" may be more appropriate in highly formal contexts.