liberally applied

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "liberally applied" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a principle, rule, or concept that is applied generously or without strict limitations. Example: "The guidelines for the project were liberally applied, allowing for creativity and flexibility in the final designs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

The death penalty could be more liberally applied.

The New York Times

As such, people have liberally applied the term "faceless enemy".

The New York Times

She laughed and liberally applied some lipstick with a brush.

The New York Times

(Caveat: at auto shows, the word "new" is liberally applied).

The New York Times

Perfume was liberally applied but cosmetics less so.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A number of programs show close-ups of feminine mouths with lipstick liberally applied.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

rating of 15 and liberally apply sunscreen with an S.P.F.

The New York Times - Science

Then, with the sponge paintbrush, liberally apply glue around the edges of the book to make the pages stick.

The New York Times

He (actor, musician, billboard Joshua Whitehouse) liberally applies the sauce, while She (actor and model Amber Anderson) looks winsome in soft focus.

The Guardian - Film

Prep everything with softening washes (or emollient cream, if you're serious) then liberally apply Burt's Bees Ultimate Care Body Lotion (£11.99, burtsbees.co.uk) to dry legs and arms.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

To patch curled shingles, brush away debris and liberally apply plastic or asphalt roofing cement to the underside of the shingle and the roof area.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the application of rules or principles, use "liberally applied" to convey a flexible and lenient approach. For instance, "The guidelines were liberally applied to encourage innovation."

Common error

Avoid using "liberally applied" when you mean a precise or measured application. The phrase implies a generous, rather than exact, quantity. It's not suited for scientific or medical contexts that demand accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "liberally applied" functions as a modifier, typically describing how a substance, rule, or concept is implemented or used. As noted by Ludwig AI, it indicates a generous or unrestricted application.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

20%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "liberally applied" is a commonly used phrase that indicates something is applied or used generously and without strict limitations. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. The phrase is seen most frequently in news and media, but also appears in scientific and encyclopedic contexts. When writing, use "liberally applied" to emphasize abundance or flexibility in application, but avoid it when describing precise measurements. Alternatives such as "generously applied" or "extensively used" may be suitable depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Generously applied

Focuses on the abundance or generosity in the application.

Extensively used

Highlights the broad or widespread nature of the application.

Abundantly administered

Emphasizes the plentiful administration of something, often in a medical or formal context.

Freely used

Indicates application without restriction or hesitation.

Copiously spread

Suggests a large quantity is distributed widely.

Lavishly bestowed

Emphasizes the extravagance or richness of what is applied.

Profusely given

Highlights the abundant giving or application of something.

Ample use

Suggests sufficient or more than sufficient usage.

Widely adopted

Focuses on the broad acceptance and implementation of something.

Heavily implemented

Indicates substantial or significant application.

FAQs

How can I use "liberally applied" in a sentence?

You can use "liberally applied" to describe something that is used or distributed generously or extensively. For example, "Sunscreen should be "liberally applied" before sun exposure".

What are some alternatives to "liberally applied"?

Alternatives include phrases like "generously applied", "extensively used", or "abundantly administered", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "liberally apply"?

Yes, "liberally apply" is the verb form, while "liberally applied" is the past participle form used as an adjective. Both are grammatically correct depending on the sentence structure.

What's the difference between "sparingly applied" and "liberally applied"?

"Sparingly applied" means using or distributing something in small quantities to conserve it, while "liberally applied" means using or distributing something generously or extensively. They are antonyms.