applying them

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "applying them" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of putting certain concepts, rules, or methods into practice. Example: "After studying the theories, the students focused on applying them in real-world scenarios."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Applying them may also uncover other, existing structural problems.

The New York Times - Arts

We are just applying them to what we do".

The New York Times - Tech

The conditions are clear – applying them less so.

The Guardian - Opinion

Discussing economic ideas is quite different from applying them.

The Economist

We're taking those designs and applying them to oyster reefs".

The New York Times - Science

It's a testament to them that they're applying them relatively quick".

The New York Times - Sports

So I think taking those same precepts and instinctually applying them to space is what happened".

The Guardian - Film

"We are taking digital cinema techniques and applying them to theatrical entertainment".

The New York Times - Tech

When applying them gently, it felt as though not much was happening.

The New York Times

And there's no better place to start applying them than Semenya's race.

The New Yorker

It is not the barriers of language that keep us from applying them.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure the context clearly indicates what "them" refers to; avoid ambiguity by explicitly stating the items being applied or consider rephrasing for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "applying them" without a clear antecedent for "them". This can confuse readers. Always ensure the noun or concept "them" represents is explicitly stated earlier in the sentence or paragraph.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "applying them" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as part of a larger clause. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts. It describes the action of putting something into effect or practice, often following the introduction of the items being applied.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

43%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "applying them" is a versatile and frequently used phrase across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It functions as a verb phrase indicating the implementation of methods or principles. While generally neutral in register, it leans toward professional, with common usage in news, media, and scientific domains. To enhance clarity, ensure the antecedent of "them" is explicitly stated. Consider alternatives like "utilizing them" or "implementing them" depending on the specific context. As Ludwig's examples illustrate, "applying them" is a valuable tool for expressing the transition from theory to practice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

utilizing them

Focuses on making practical and effective use of something, similar to applying, but emphasizes efficiency.

implementing them

Suggests putting a plan or system into effect, highlighting the structured execution aspect.

executing them

Emphasizes the performance or carrying out of specific actions or tasks, offering a more direct approach.

employing them

Highlights the use of something as a means to an end, focusing on strategic application.

practicing them

Emphasizes repeated application or exercise of skills or methods to improve proficiency.

administering them

Implies managing or overseeing the application of something, adding a layer of control and responsibility.

effecting them

Focuses on bringing about a result or change through the application of something.

exercising them

Highlights the act of using a skill, right, or quality, often in a deliberate or formal manner.

bringing them to bear

Suggests exerting influence or force through the application of something, often in a challenging situation.

putting them into action

Emphasizes the transition from theory to practice, highlighting the active implementation of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "applying them" to describe the act of putting principles, rules, or methods into practice. For example: "The students learned the theories and then focused on "applying them" to real-world problems."

What are some alternatives to "applying them"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "utilizing them", "implementing them", or "executing them".

Is it always necessary to specify what "them" refers to when using "applying them"?

Yes, for clarity it's crucial to ensure the reader knows what "them" refers to. Vague pronoun references can lead to confusion, so make sure the antecedent is clear and unambiguous. If not, consider rephrasing the sentence to avoid the pronoun altogether.

How does the formality of the context affect the appropriateness of using "applying them"?

"Applying them" is suitable for various contexts, from formal to informal. However, in highly formal or scientific writing, consider whether a more precise term like "implementing them" or "employing them" might be more appropriate.