certain definitions apply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain definitions apply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where specific terms or definitions are relevant to the discussion or subject matter at hand. Example: "In this legal document, certain definitions apply to ensure clarity and understanding of the terms used throughout the text."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The agreement works like this: Each publisher is responsible for its own research, but when it touches on one of 90 topics, a uniformly phrased question must be asked and certain definitions apply -- to leave nothing to the imagination.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Nazar" is an Arabic word for "seeing, insight, reflection," and all three definitions apply here.

The New York Times

Similar definitions apply to and if.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Similar definitions apply for Ehj, Ihj, Rhj and Nhj.

Plosone

Parallel definitions apply to symptomatic OA.

Arthritis Research and Therapy

Doesn't that definition apply to life, too, and to the best stories?

The New Yorker

The definition applies to groups or individuals committing or threatening to commit certain acts, including murder, kidnapping and hijacking, with the clear intent of intimidating a population or destabilizing a country's political or economic structures.

The New York Times

Certain definitions admit cut, others do not.

SEP

Writer says the first definition applies (ideally) to all Christians, and the 2nd & 3rd definitions characterize some Christians.

The New Yorker

Pidgin is a definition applied to simplistic languages that are prone to die out.

The Guardian

In 2014, that definition applied to approximately 8 million people.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "certain definitions apply", ensure that the specific definitions are clearly stated or easily accessible to your audience to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid simply stating "certain definitions apply" without providing the actual definitions or a clear reference to where they can be found. This can leave your audience confused and unsure of the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain definitions apply" functions as a statement indicating that specific, predefined meanings or conditions are relevant within a particular context. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is generally correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "certain definitions apply" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signals the relevance of specific, predetermined meanings within a given context. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While its usage spans various domains, it is particularly prevalent in scientific, news, and encyclopedic sources. For clear and effective communication, it's best to clearly state or provide access to the definitions being referenced.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific definitions are relevant

Focuses on the relevance of particular definitions, rather than the act of applying them.

particular definitions are applicable

Highlights the applicability of specific definitions, emphasizing their relevance to the situation.

some definitions are valid

Indicates that only a subset of definitions hold true or are appropriate.

certain conditions are in effect

Shifts the focus to conditions rather than definitions, implying a set of rules or limitations.

specific terminology is used

Emphasizes the use of precise language and vocabulary within a context.

predetermined definitions are in play

Implies that definitions have been set in advance and are now being utilized.

some stipulations are pertinent

Similar to "certain conditions are in effect", but uses more formal language.

qualifying definitions are required

Highlights the need for definitions that meet certain criteria or qualifications.

a set of definitions must be used

Focuses on the mandatory use of a group of definitions.

definitions under consideration

Suggests that definitions are being evaluated or actively reviewed.

FAQs

How can I clarify what "certain definitions apply" refers to?

Provide a specific list of the definitions that are relevant or a reference to where those definitions are explained. For example, "When calculating ROI, certain definitions apply: Revenue is defined as total income before expenses, and Investment is defined as the total capital outlay."

What's a more formal way to say "certain definitions apply"?

You could use phrases like "specific definitions are relevant" or "particular definitions are applicable" to convey a similar meaning in a more formal tone.

Is it correct to say "certain definitions are applied" instead of "certain definitions apply"?

While "certain definitions are applied" is grammatically correct, it implies a deliberate action of applying the definitions. "Certain definitions apply" suggests the definitions are inherently relevant in the context.

What if the 'certain definitions' are exceptions to a general rule? Should I still use "certain definitions apply"?

Yes, you can still use "certain definitions apply", but it's crucial to clarify that these definitions represent exceptions. For example, "The standard rules apply unless otherwise specified; however, certain definitions apply in cases of force majeure."