generally applicable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "generally applicable" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a rule, principle, or statement that applies to most situations or cases. Example: "The company's dress code is generally applicable to all employees, regardless of their position or department."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Surely this wisdom is more generally applicable?

The Guardian

But the lessons are generally applicable.

The Economist

Our secret is simple — and generally applicable.

The New York Times

By contrast, this case involves a generally applicable statute.

The New York Times

Twitter users may retain certain rights, though it's unclear as to how generally applicable this case will be.

The New Yorker

The S-shaped growth curve is generally applicable to the growth of organisms.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A variety of organic chemical analytical techniques are generally applicable to studies involving carbohydrates.

Encyclopedia Britannica

So that any progress of a generally applicable kind can be made, approximations are necessary.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Our substrate design is thus generally applicable.

Analytical Biochemistry

"It's not certain how generally applicable the findings will be".

Science Magazine

It is more generally applicable than other invasive methods.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "generally applicable", ensure the context supports its broad applicability. Avoid using it when describing situations with specific exceptions or limitations.

Common error

Avoid using "generally applicable" when the principle or method has known exceptions or limitations. Overstating its reach can mislead readers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "generally applicable" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the extent to which something can be applied or is relevant. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

54%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "generally applicable" is a versatile term used to describe something with broad relevance or utility. As verified by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly employed across diverse fields such as science, news, and encyclopedias. The phrase functions as an adjective modifying a noun, indicating that a rule, method, or principle can be applied in a wide range of situations. While alternatives like "widely applicable" or "universally applicable" exist, "generally applicable" strikes a balance between broad reach and potential exceptions. When using this phrase, ensure the context genuinely supports its widespread applicability, and avoid overstating its reach in situations with known limitations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

widely applicable

Focuses on the breadth of application, emphasizing that it applies in many situations.

universally applicable

Highlights that it applies to every instance or situation without exception.

broadly relevant

Emphasizes the relevance to a wide range of subjects or contexts, shifting the focus from application to relevance.

commonly used

Highlights the frequency of use, suggesting it is a standard or typical approach.

typically applied

Indicates that it is the usual or expected method, focusing on the standard practice.

extensively used

Focuses on the degree to which it is used, implying widespread adoption.

largely implemented

Highlights the scale of implementation, emphasizing the broad adoption of a practice or system.

commonly adopted

Stresses the acceptance and use by many, focusing on the popularity of a method.

routinely employed

Emphasizes the habitual and systematic use, highlighting it as a regular practice.

generally accepted

Highlights the widespread agreement or approval, shifting the focus to consensus rather than application.

FAQs

How can I use "generally applicable" in a sentence?

You can use "generally applicable" to describe methods, rules, or principles that apply to most situations. For example: "This rule is "generally applicable" to all employees."

What is a good substitute for "generally applicable"?

Alternatives include "widely applicable", "universally applicable", or "broadly relevant" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "mostly applicable" instead of "generally applicable"?

While "mostly applicable" conveys a similar meaning, "generally applicable" is more formal and implies a stronger expectation of consistent application. "Mostly applicable" suggests more frequent exceptions.

What's the difference between "generally applicable" and "commonly used"?

"Generally applicable" refers to the scope of application, while "commonly used" refers to the frequency of use. A method can be "generally applicable" but not "commonly used", and vice versa.