bind to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bind to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts related to chemistry, biology, or programming, where one entity attaches or connects to another. Example: "The enzyme will bind to the substrate, facilitating the chemical reaction."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Some bind to stretches of DNA.

The Economist

Instead, the protein broke, unable to bind to any hormone.

The New York Times - Science

Hydrogen and other molecules bind to the surfaces.

The New York Times - Science

Scopolamine and its close cousin atropine are "muscarinic antagonists" – they bind to receptors in the nervous system that would, ordinarily, bind to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.

The Guardian

All the drugs bind to receptors in the nervous system meant for a neurotransmitter called GABA.

The New York Times - Health

So two strands can bind to each other if their sequences are complementary.

The New York Times - Science

Smokers typically take in the amount of nicotine needed to bind to the receptors.

The New York Times

The kits use antibodies that search out and bind to anthrax proteins, signaling a positive identification.

The New York Times

When cardiac glycosides bind to these exchange pumps, they stop the pumps' function.

The Guardian

The researchers developed a test to find immune cells that bind to glycosaminoglycans.

The New York Times

It eventually out-competes the tweezers' arms to bind to the fuel DNA.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing interactions at a molecular level, such as in biology or chemistry, use "bind to" to precisely convey the specific interaction between molecules or compounds.

Common error

While "bind to" is appropriate in scientific discussions, avoid using it excessively in general writing. Opt for alternatives like "attach to" or "connect to" for broader applications.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "bind to" functions primarily as a verb phrase expressing the action of one entity becoming attached or connected to another. This is evident in Ludwig's examples relating to chemical and biological processes, such as antibodies binding to antigens or molecules binding to surfaces.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

51%

News & Media

48%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bind to" is a phrasal verb primarily used to describe the action of attaching or connecting, especially in scientific contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability, particularly in science and news media. While highly prevalent, it's advisable to consider alternatives like "attach to" or "connect to" in non-technical writing. When employing this phrase, focus on contexts involving a physical or chemical interaction between entities. This ensures clarity and accuracy, especially when describing complex biological or chemical processes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attach to

Emphasizes a physical connection or joining, often more direct than "bind to".

adhere to

Suggests sticking to something, often used in a more formal or abstract sense like following rules.

connect to

Implies a linkage or association, which may be physical or abstract.

link to

Highlights a relationship or association, often used in digital contexts.

fasten to

Suggests a secure or firm attachment, typically physical.

be bound by

Indicates an obligation or constraint.

be obliged to

Highlights a moral or legal necessity.

be required to

Focuses on a mandatory action or condition.

cleave to

A more archaic or literary way of saying to adhere strongly to something, either physically or emotionally.

stick to

Suggests maintaining a course of action or a decision without changing.

FAQs

How to use "bind to" in a sentence?

Use "bind to" to describe a specific attachment or connection, particularly in scientific contexts. For example, "The antibody will "bind to" the antigen".

What can I say instead of "bind to"?

You can use alternatives like "attach to", "connect to", or "adhere to" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "bind to" or "bind with"?

"Bind to" is generally preferred when indicating a direct attachment. "Bind with" can be used, but it often implies a more complex interaction or combination.

What's the difference between "bind to" and "link to"?

"Bind to" typically describes a physical or chemical attachment, whereas "link to" suggests a connection, either physical or conceptual. For example a DNA can bind to a protein, while a website links to another website.