as they apply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as they apply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to how certain rules, principles, or concepts are relevant or relevantly interpreted in specific situations. Example: "The guidelines should be followed as they apply to each individual case."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Anyone can be considered as long as they apply online.

The New York Times

We summarize these recent advances in the field of traditional medicines as they apply to CKD.

American Journal of Kidney Diseases

They have gone to court to fight the rules as they apply in Britain.

The New York Times

We were therefore compelled to follow the N.C.A.A. rules as they apply to the situation".

The New York Times - Sports

3. The article mentions the "Defense of Marriage Acts" as they apply to individual states.

The New York Times

All first-year students are guaranteed accommodation as long as they apply by the deadline.

The Guardian

As they apply pressure in one area, the attacks slip away to another.

The New York Times

Instead, people are routinely told as soon as they apply for welfare to get jobs.

The New York Times

the same as they apply to State operations,” S. 555, 100th Cong., 1st Sess., 37 (1987).

Cornell University

Covers merchandising principles and practices as they apply to food industry situations.

Cornell University

In this context, the principles and practice of sustainability are examined as they apply to the energy sector.

Process Safety and Environmental Protection

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as they apply", ensure that the subject to which the phrase refers is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "Use the rules as they apply", specify: "Use the rules as they apply to international students".

Common error

Avoid using "as they apply" without specifying to whom or what the rules, principles, or guidelines are being applied. Unclear scope can lead to misinterpretations and incorrect application of the subject in question.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as they apply" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by specifying the conditions or scope under which an action or statement is relevant. It indicates the specific context or circumstances in which something is applicable, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

36%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as they apply" is a versatile phrase used to define the scope and context in which rules, principles, or guidelines are relevant. It is grammatically correct and very common, appearing frequently in science, news, and academic sources, according to Ludwig. When using this phrase, clarity is key: ensure the subject of application is well-defined to avoid ambiguity. Related phrases, such as "as relevant" or "in their application", can offer subtle variations in meaning. By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate contexts, writers can effectively use "as they apply" to add precision and clarity to their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as they are relevant

Highlights the relevance of certain aspects.

as they are pertinent

Indicates the pertinence or relevance of something.

in their application

Focuses on the specific process of applying something.

based on their relevance

Emphasizes relevance as the basis for something.

in their practical use

Emphasizes the actual usage and implementation.

in the way they are utilized

Focuses on the manner of utilization.

to the extent they are applicable

Specifies the degree to which something can be applied.

according to their implementation

Highlights the aspect of putting something into effect.

depending on how they are exercised

Focuses on the exercise or application of something.

in accordance with their usage

Highlights that action should be performed accordingly to the usage.

FAQs

How can I use "as they apply" in a sentence?

Use "as they apply" to specify how certain rules, principles, or concepts are relevant in particular situations. For instance, "Consider these regulations "as they pertain" to international transactions".

What are some alternatives to "as they apply"?

You can use alternatives like "as relevant", "as applicable", or "in their application" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to use "as they apply" or "as applicable"?

"As applicable" might be slightly more formal than "as they apply", but both are appropriate for professional and academic writing. The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

How does the meaning change if I replace "as they apply" with "how they apply"?

Replacing "as they apply" with "how they apply" shifts the focus from relevance to the manner of application. For example, "Understand the rules as they apply" emphasizes relevance, while "Understand how they apply the rules" focuses on the method of application.