general applicability

USAGE SUMMARY

"general applicability" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means that something can be applied or used broadly or universally. You can use it when discussing a concept, law, or principle that is not limited to one specific situation or group of people. Example: The rule of law has general applicability, meaning it applies to all citizens and situations, regardless of social status or influence.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

§ 615.5350 General - Applicability.

Cornell University

Exemptions of general applicability.

Cornell University

§ 123.16 Exemptions of general applicability.

Cornell University

22 CFR § 123.16 - Exemptions of general applicability.

Cornell University

It is not an Act of general applicability to industry.

Cornell University

Now their confidence in the general applicability of the solar-system model has been repeatedly shaken.

The New York Times - Science

And Mr. DeLay recently revealed how he felt about rules of general applicability.

The New York Times

The general applicability of the present method is therefore obvious.

Chemical Engineering Science

First experimental results show the general applicability of the concept.

Chemical Engineering Science

"The state violates no constitutionally protected religious liberty by imposing laws of general applicability … on the religious and nonreligious alike".

The Guardian - Opinion

The principle underlying the general applicability requirement has parallels in our First Amendment jurisprudence.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing research or methodologies, clearly define the limitations to the "general applicability" of your findings to avoid overstating their impact.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a solution with "general applicability" will work perfectly in every unique situation. Always consider context-specific factors that might require adjustments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "general applicability" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the extent to which something can be applied across various contexts. According to Ludwig, the phrase is commonly used and accepted in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

Academia

22%

News & Media

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "general applicability" is a commonly used noun phrase that denotes the extent to which something can be applied broadly across different contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English. The phrase is particularly prevalent in science and academia, but also appears in news and media. It's crucial to clearly define the limits of "general applicability" in research, avoiding overstatements about findings. While valuable, assuming a solution with "general applicability" will perfectly solve every problem in every situation should be avoided. Consider context-specific factors that might call for adjustments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Broad application

Focuses on the extent of application, emphasizing its wide scope.

Universal applicability

Highlights the ability to apply to all cases without exception.

Wide-ranging applicability

Emphasizes the breadth of situations to which it can be applied.

Extensive applicability

Indicates a large scope of potential applications.

Global applicability

Implies that it can be applied worldwide.

Overall applicability

Highlights the overall extent to which something can be applied.

Comprehensive applicability

Focuses on the thoroughness and completeness of the application.

General relevance

Shifts the focus to how pertinent it is in different scenarios.

General suitability

Highlights how appropriate something is in most cases.

Broad relevance

Similar to "general relevance" but emphasizes the wide scope of its pertinence.

FAQs

How is "general applicability" used in legal contexts?

In legal contexts, "general applicability" often refers to laws that apply equally to everyone, rather than targeting specific individuals or groups. A law of "general applicability" does not single out specific entities.

What are some synonyms for "general applicability"?

Synonyms for "general applicability" include "broad application", "universal applicability", and "wide-ranging applicability". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

How do you assess the "general applicability" of a research study?

The "general applicability" of a study is assessed by considering the diversity of the sample, the settings in which the study was conducted, and whether the findings can reasonably be expected to apply to other populations or situations. Limitations should always be disclosed.

What is the difference between "general applicability" and specific applicability?

"General applicability" refers to something that applies broadly across many situations or to many individuals, whereas specific applicability is limited to particular cases or certain individuals. For example, a law may have "general applicability", while a contract has specific applicability to the signing parties.