are subject to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are subject to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to potential changes or restrictions that a person or situation may have to accept. Example: All visitors to the museum are subject to the rules of the institution.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Tickets are subject to availability.

Independent

Perceptions are subject to frequent change.

The New York Times - Sports

Both rulings are subject to appeal.

The Economist

But foreigners are subject to two taxes.

The New York Times

They are subject to anti-fraud law.

The Economist

They are subject to imprisonment without charges.

The New York Times

Some vehicles are subject to both recalls.

The New York Times

Red cells are subject to osmotic effects.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Defense expenditures themselves are subject to controversy.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The death sentences are subject to appeal.

Independent

As always, dates are subject to change.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are subject to", ensure the potential condition or change is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, "Prices are subject to change without notice" provides clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "are subject to" without specifying what 'they' or 'it' refers to. Instead of saying "Things are subject to change", clarify by saying "Project timelines are subject to change".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are subject to" primarily functions as a predicative expression indicating that something is prone to or conditional on something else. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in diverse contexts. Examples include situations where conditions, rules, or potential changes apply.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are subject to" is a versatile expression used to indicate that something is conditional, vulnerable, or liable to change. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and widely applicable in various contexts. It functions primarily to establish conditions or limitations, as seen in numerous examples from news, encyclopedias, and wiki sources.

The linguistic analysis reveals that while its register can range from neutral to formal, it is particularly prevalent in news and media outlets. The phrase's frequent usage across diverse domains underscores its utility in setting expectations and clarifying the scope of agreements, rules, or observations. Remembering the writing guidance—especially the need for clarity and avoiding vagueness—will aid in effective and precise use of "are subject to" in your own writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are liable to

This alternative directly conveys the idea of being legally responsible or likely to experience something negative.

are prone to

This option emphasizes a tendency or inclination towards something, often undesirable.

are exposed to

This suggests a state of being vulnerable to external influences or dangers.

are contingent upon

This alternative highlights that something depends on specific conditions being met.

are conditional on

Similar to "are contingent upon", this emphasizes the dependence on certain conditions.

are governed by

This indicates that something is controlled or regulated by a set of rules or principles.

are dictated by

Implies that something is determined or controlled by an external authority or factor.

are sensitive to

Highlights a susceptibility or responsiveness to particular stimuli or changes.

are at the mercy of

This suggests a lack of control and dependence on uncontrollable forces.

are under the control of

Indicates that something is being actively managed or directed by another entity.

FAQs

How can I use "are subject to" in a sentence?

Use "are subject to" to indicate that something is likely to happen or is dependent on certain conditions. For example, "All offers "are subject to availability"".

What's a formal alternative to "are subject to"?

A more formal alternative is "are contingent upon", which implies a dependency on specific conditions. For instance, "The agreement are contingent upon regulatory approval".

What does it mean when something "is subject to" something else?

When something "is subject to" something else, it means that it is likely to be affected by it or that it must comply with it. For example, "Data "are subject to verification" before being used".

Is it better to use "are subject to" or "are liable to"?

While both phrases indicate a possibility, "are subject to" often implies a formal or procedural condition, while "are liable to" suggests a greater probability of something negative occurring. Choose based on the specific nuance you want to convey.