cannot be applied to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cannot be applied to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that a certain rule, concept, or principle does not pertain to a specific case or situation. Example: "The regulations outlined in the document cannot be applied to this particular scenario due to its unique circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Tax credits cannot be applied to personal income taxes.

The New York Times

Normally, federal aid cannot be applied to economic development.

The New York Times

Such precise configuration cannot be applied to skaters.

The New York Times - Sports

Tax credits, however, cannot be applied to catastrophic plans.

The New York Times

However, this approach cannot be applied to nonregular designs directly.

Acta Mathematica Scientia

Therefore, MVU cannot be applied to process monitoring directly.

Journal of Process Control

However, these formulas cannot be applied to every deck section.

Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics

But some experts say this research cannot be applied to the general population or to Americans.

The New York Times - Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Unfortunately, the same method cannot be applied to pantries, as they often creak when opened slowly.

WikiHow

Therefore, Corollary 3.1 cannot be applied to (53).

Advances in Difference Equations

Thus, Theorem 10 cannot be applied to this example.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cannot be applied to", ensure that the reason for its inapplicability is clear to the reader. Providing context strengthens your argument and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that if something "cannot be applied to" one specific case, it's universally inapplicable. Always consider the specific conditions and context before making such a determination.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cannot be applied to" functions as a predicate in a sentence, indicating that a particular concept, rule, or method is not suitable or relevant in a given situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

32%

Academia

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cannot be applied to" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to express that a particular concept, rule, or method is not suitable or relevant in a given context. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and common usage across diverse fields, including science, news, and academia. When using this phrase, clarity is key: ensure the reason for its inapplicability is evident to the reader. Alternatives like "is not applicable to" or "does not pertain to" may be used depending on the desired level of formality. Remember to avoid overgeneralizing its inapplicability and always consider the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is not applicable to

Direct synonym, emphasizes irrelevance or unsuitability.

does not pertain to

Emphasizes a lack of connection or relevance.

is not relevant to

Highlights the absence of relevance in a specific situation.

is not suited for

Focuses on the inappropriateness or inadequacy for a specific purpose.

is inappropriate for

Highlights unsuitability, often due to mismatch or adverse consequences.

is not designed for

Emphasizes that something was not intended for a particular use.

is outside the scope of

Indicates that something falls beyond the defined limits or boundaries.

is not meant for

Highlights intended use, suggesting unsuitability outside of it.

does not hold for

Indicates that a rule or principle is invalid in a particular case.

is not valid for

Implies that something lacks legitimacy or effectiveness in a certain situation.

FAQs

How can I use "cannot be applied to" in a sentence?

Use "cannot be applied to" to indicate that a rule, concept, or principle does not pertain or is not relevant to a specific situation. For example, "These tax credits "cannot be applied to" personal income taxes."

What are some alternatives to "cannot be applied to"?

Alternatives include phrases like "is not applicable to", "does not pertain to", or "is not relevant to", depending on the specific context.

Is it more formal to say "is not applicable to" or "cannot be applied to"?

"Is not applicable to" is generally considered more formal than "cannot be applied to". Choose the phrase that best suits the tone and audience of your writing.

When should I use "cannot be used for" instead of "cannot be applied to"?

Use "cannot be used for" when referring to the intended purpose or function of something. Use "cannot be applied to" when discussing the relevance or applicability of a rule, principle, or concept in a specific situation. For example, "This tool "cannot be used for" that task" versus "This method "cannot be applied to" this dataset".