liked to apply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "liked to apply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a preference or habit regarding applying something, such as a skill or method, in the past. Example: "She always liked to apply her creativity to solve complex problems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Even then, Bronwyn Bishop didn't appreciate the kind of scrutiny she liked to apply to others.

The Guardian

Leser wrote in Guardian Australia last month that Bishop "didn't appreciate the kind of scrutiny she liked to apply to others".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It is this unconventional approach to theory that they would now like to apply in practice.

Independent

Some believers (see chart) would still like to apply Islamic penalties to the letter.

The Economist

Many researchers would like to apply these techniques to people.Their interest is not procreation.

The Economist

Last week, the firm asked current members if they would like to apply to the committee to remain on the board.

The New York Times

I'd like to apply to study forensic science next year, at Leicester or Bristol, but I focused on work this year.

The Guardian

Greg Wolf likes to apply this more-the-merrier philosophy to the coffee and tea business in New York.

The New York Times

Dr. Burke would like to apply talking lights technology beyond the hospital, in office buildings and homes, for example.

The New York Times - Tech

"I like to apply black and white to a topic that is traditionally gray," he said of courtship.

The New York Times

The cheapness theory doesn't always fit, but it is occasionally useful: I like to apply it to Italian barberas, to some Riojas and occasionally to California wines.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "liked to apply" when you want to convey a past preference or habitual action regarding the use of a specific skill, method, or approach. Be mindful of the context to ensure it accurately reflects the person's inclination.

Common error

Avoid using "liked to apply" when simply describing a one-time action. The phrase implies a recurring preference, so ensure the context reflects a repeated or habitual behavior rather than an isolated incident.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "liked to apply" functions as a verb phrase indicating a past preference or inclination towards using a particular method, skill, or approach. As seen in Ludwig, it expresses a fondness for utilizing something in a certain way.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "liked to apply" is a phrase used to describe a past preference or habitual action of using a particular method or skill. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and indicates it's most frequently found in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the context reflects a recurring preference rather than a single action. Consider alternatives such as "enjoyed using" or "often utilized" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

often utilized

Emphasizes the frequency of applying something.

enjoyed using

Focuses on the positive feeling associated with utilizing something.

was inclined to use

Indicates a tendency to apply something.

preferred to implement

Highlights a chosen method of putting something into effect.

favored the application of

Highlights the preference for the act of applying something.

was fond of employing

Emphasizes a liking for a specific technique or strategy.

gravitated towards using

Suggests a natural movement towards applying something.

had a penchant for utilizing

Suggests a strong inclination towards using something.

habitually employed

Focuses on the routine nature of applying something.

found satisfaction in applying

Highlights the sense of fulfillment derived from using something.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "liked to apply" to emphasize enjoyment?

You could use alternatives like "enjoyed using", or "found satisfaction in applying" to convey a sense of pleasure or fulfillment derived from the application.

What's the difference between "liked to apply" and "used to apply"?

"Liked to apply" indicates a preference or enjoyment in applying something, while "used to apply" simply indicates a past habit or practice, without necessarily implying enjoyment.

When is it appropriate to use "liked to apply" in formal writing?

The phrase "liked to apply" is generally suitable for neutral to informal contexts. In more formal writing, consider alternatives like "preferred to implement" or "favored the application of" for a more professional tone.

What are some alternatives to "liked to apply" that emphasize frequency?

To emphasize frequency, you can use phrases like "often utilized" or "habitually employed" as alternatives to "liked to apply".