could apply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "could apply" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is relevant or applicable in a certain context or situation. Example: "The rules outlined in the document could apply to various scenarios we might encounter during the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Anyone could apply.

The Economist

Even Entwistle could apply.

The Guardian

"Both theories could apply".

The New York Times

Alternatively, Mr. Snowden could apply for asylum.

The New York Times

Both mechanisms could apply to meerkats.

The Economist

This accident could apply to every aircraft".

The New York Times - Magazine

It could apply to 720 million people.

The New York Times

Nonprofit groups like Social Finance could apply.

The New York Times

"Absolutely it could apply this season".

The New York Times - Sports

Similar principles could apply to energy.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Every owner could apply," he added.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "could apply" when suggesting a potential or conditional application, rather than a definite one. This acknowledges uncertainty or specific requirements for its applicability.

Common error

Avoid using "could apply" when "does apply" is more accurate. If evidence strongly suggests something is currently applicable, use the more direct phrasing to maintain clarity and strength in your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could apply" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating a possibility, potential, or conditional application. It suggests that something is capable of being used or relevant in a particular context, but its actual application depends on certain conditions or circumstances. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "could apply" is a versatile phrase used to express the potential or conditional applicability of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. It is most commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts, and its neutral register makes it suitable for various writing styles. When using this phrase, remember to consider whether you are expressing a genuine possibility or if a more definitive statement is warranted. By understanding the nuances of "could apply", you can enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might be applicable

Replaces the certainty of application with a suggestion of possibility.

may be relevant

Focuses on the relevance of something rather than its direct application.

might hold true

Emphasizes the validity or truth of a statement or principle in a given situation.

might be pertinent

Stresses the relevance and importance of something to a specific matter.

may be brought to bear

Suggests the potential influence or effect something might have.

could be brought to bear

Highlights the potential application or utilization of something in a given situation.

may be used

Focuses on the possibility of employing something for a particular purpose.

might prove useful

Emphasizes the potential benefit or advantage of something.

may be considered

Suggests the possibility of taking something into account.

might lend itself to

Indicates that something is suitable or adaptable to a particular situation.

FAQs

How to use "could apply" in a sentence?

Use "could apply" to suggest a possibility or potential relevance. For example, "These rules "could apply" to your situation if certain conditions are met".

What can I say instead of "could apply"?

You can use alternatives like "might be applicable", "may be relevant", or "might hold true" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "could apply" or "can apply"?

"Could apply" suggests a possibility or conditional application, while "can apply" indicates a present ability or permission to apply. The choice depends on whether you're expressing a potential or a current capability.

What's the difference between "could apply" and "would apply"?

"Could apply" expresses a potential or conditional application. "Would apply" indicates what would happen under certain circumstances or if something were true. For example, "If the law were changed, this rule "would apply"".