definitely apply to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definitely apply to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to assert that something is certainly relevant or applicable to a particular situation or context. Example: "The rules definitely apply to all participants in the competition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

She predicted that the right to copy, under carefully defined circumstances, would still "definitely apply to AIDS drugs, cancer drugs and lifesaving drugs".

The New York Times

I'd say I'll definitely apply to more than eight schools, maybe around 10. My friends and I talk about it all the time, and we're all pretty stressed out.

The New York Times

It has the sufficient padding and protection I need in a case along with careful consideration for cooling aspects that definitely apply to my overheated Apple laptop.

TechCrunch

I think that type of blanket statement like that would definitely apply to me," he said.

Huffington Post

For anyone who wants to make a difference on a college campus, definitely apply to be an RA.

Huffington Post

And if you're dreaming of a project that you think would benefit from a train ride across America with other dreamers and a chance to work on your dream five to six hours a day and learn from mentors who can help move your project forward, you should definitely apply to be on the next Millennial Trains Project journey!

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

That definitely applies to Daniel Migliacci, 22, another of the Cambridge nine.

The New York Times

All this said, this privacy debate definitely applies to the primaries for me.

The Guardian

I think that definitely applies to the job of being captain.

The Guardian - Sport

And what applies to ordinary mortals most definitely applies to the people elected or appointed to run the country.

The New York Times

That dictum — one of only a few certainties in an uncertain world — most definitely applies to the statistical sausage factory where medical data is ground into advice.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "definitely apply to" when you want to emphasize that something is certainly relevant or applicable, leaving no room for doubt. It strengthens your assertion.

Common error

While "definitely apply to" can add emphasis, avoid overusing adverbs like "definitely", "certainly", or "absolutely" in your writing. Too many can make your writing sound repetitive or less credible. Opt for stronger verbs or evidence instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definitely apply to" functions as a verb phrase used to express a strong affirmation of relevance or applicability. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a correct and usable expression.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

43%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "definitely apply to" is a grammatically correct verb phrase used to assert the strong relevance or applicability of something. While Ludwig AI indicates its correctness, it's essential to consider context and avoid overuse. It appears frequently in News & Media and Science. Alternatives such as "certainly relate to" can offer varied emphasis. Remember, using "definitely apply to" can add emphasis, but be mindful of overall writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

certainly relate to

Emphasizes a strong connection or relevance, instead of direct application.

undoubtedly pertain to

Highlights the unquestionable relevance or connection.

surely be relevant to

Indicates a high degree of likelihood that something applies.

absolutely concern

Focuses on the direct and undeniable relevance or involvement.

unquestionably affect

Highlights the certain impact or influence on something.

unfailingly be about

Emphasizes the consistent and reliable relevance.

assuredly connect to

Indicates a guaranteed link or relationship.

positively bear upon

Formally emphasizes the direct influence or effect.

unmistakably regard

Indicates that something is clearly related or relevant.

decidedly treat

Emphasizes a clear and intentional focus on the topic or subject.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "definitely apply to" in writing?

Use "definitely apply to" when you want to strongly assert that a rule, principle, or condition is relevant to a specific situation. It's useful for clarity and emphasis when you want to eliminate any doubt about applicability.

What are some alternatives to "definitely apply to"?

You can use alternatives like "certainly relate to", "undoubtedly pertain to", or "surely be relevant to" depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "definitely apply to" and "definitely applies to"?

"Definitely apply to" is generally used with a plural subject or in hypothetical constructions (e.g., 'These rules definitely apply to all members'), while "definitely applies to" is used with a singular subject (e.g., 'This rule definitely applies to you').

How can I make the phrase "definitely apply to" sound more formal?

To make it sound more formal, consider alternatives such as "assuredly connect to", or "positively bear upon", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. The original phrase is acceptable in most contexts, but these alternatives add a touch of formality.