is subject to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'is subject to' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express that something is dependent on or is affected by something else. For example: "The price of the item is subject to change without notice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Offer is subject to availability.

Independent

What is subject to negotiation?

The Guardian

The settlement is subject to court approval.

The New York Times

(The program is subject to change).

The New York Times

Line-up is subject to change.

Independent

The bill is subject to Senate approval.

The New York Times

Armenia is subject to damaging earthquakes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But it is subject to qualifications.

The New York Times

The agreement is subject to a physical.

The New York Times

(The set list is subject to change).

The New York Times - Arts

This idea is subject to some dispute.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is subject to" to clearly indicate that a condition, rule, or external factor can influence the outcome or validity of something. This helps manage expectations and avoid misunderstandings.

Common error

Avoid overuse by considering alternative phrasing. While accurate, overuse can make writing sound overly cautious or bureaucratic. Use stronger, more direct language where appropriate to enhance clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is subject to" functions as a linking verb followed by an adjective phrase. It connects the subject to a condition, potential action, or external influence, as Ludwig's examples demonstrate.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is subject to" is a versatile and widely used expression that indicates conditionality, dependence, or potential change. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic writing. While very common, it's advisable to avoid overuse and consider alternatives like "is dependent on" or "is conditional on" for stylistic variation. The phrase's authoritative usage is confirmed by its presence in sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian, making it a reliable choice for formal and neutral communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is conditional on

Emphasizes a specific condition that must be met.

is contingent upon

Highlights the dependence on a future event or circumstance.

is dependent on

Focuses on reliance or reliance on something else.

is liable to

Suggests a possibility or risk of something negative occurring.

is open to

Indicates susceptibility or vulnerability to something.

is governed by

Implies regulation or control by a set of rules or standards.

is regulated by

Highlights a set of rules.

is dictated by

Suggests that something is determined or controlled by a specific factor.

is susceptible to

Expresses a vulnerability.

is answerable to

Suggests accountability or responsibility to someone or something.

FAQs

How can I use "is subject to" in a sentence?

Use "is subject to" to indicate that something may change or is conditional. For instance, "The offer "is subject to" availability" means the offer depends on whether there are items available.

What are some alternatives to "is subject to"?

Alternatives include "is dependent on", "is contingent upon", or "is conditional on". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "are subject to" instead of "is subject to"?

Yes, use "are subject to" when referring to plural nouns. For example, "Prices are subject to change" is grammatically correct, while "Price is subject to change" is used when referring to a singular noun like "Price".

What is the difference between "is subject to" and "is affected by"?

"Is subject to" indicates a formal condition or rule, while "is affected by" generally describes a broader influence or impact. For example, "The contract "is subject to" legal review," versus "The project "is affected by" weather conditions".