must be applied

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "must be applied" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the necessity of doing something. For example: "The safety regulations must be applied at all times."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Solar factors must be applied".

Independent

Now they must be applied in Afghanistan.

The New York Times

First, reference standards must be applied.

Ecohydrology & Hydrobiology

These sorts of policies must be applied equally, she says.

The New York Times

Ranken said the deed must be applied to modern times.

The New York Times - Sports

Exceptions for injuries that occurred last season must be applied for before Oct. 1.

The New York Times - Sports

It requires two coats and must be applied with a special roller for textured paint.

The New York Times

Arriving at the right model will not be easy, but some fundamental principles must be applied.

The New York Times

Since the court is unwilling to act, lobbying pressure must be applied to Parliament.

The New York Times

The court pointed to its December decision that the rule must be applied literally.

The New York Times

Yet in modern civilization something like the reverse standard must be applied.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "must be applied", ensure that the subject to which it refers is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "the new regulations must be applied" rather than just "it must be applied".

Common error

Avoid using "must be applied" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for more natural alternatives like "should be used" or "needs to be done" to maintain an appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "must be applied" functions as a modal passive construction, indicating that a specific action or principle is obligatory and needs to be implemented. Ludwig examples showcase its usage across diverse contexts, reinforcing its role in expressing necessity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "must be applied" is a highly usable phrase in English, primarily functioning to express a strong sense of obligation or necessity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It is frequently encountered in news, scientific, and formal business contexts, denoting that a rule, principle, or action is not optional. When writing, ensure the subject is clear and consider more informal alternatives like "should be used" in casual settings. Common authoritative sources where you can encounter "must be applied" are The New York Times, The Guardian, and Forbes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is required to be used

Formal and emphasizes a mandatory condition of use.

should be implemented

Suggests a recommendation or best practice, less forceful than a strict requirement.

demands implementation

Highlights the urgency and importance of applying something.

calls for enforcement

Highlights a public or official need for a rule or policy to be put into effect.

needs to be enforced

Focuses on the active enforcement of a rule or regulation.

necessitates the use of

A more formal way of expressing that something is essential.

has to be utilized

Emphasizes the practical use or application of something.

warrants the application of

Suggests that there is a valid reason or justification for applying something.

should be enacted

Focuses on the process of putting a law or rule into effect.

ought to be adopted

Suggests a moral or ethical obligation to apply something.

FAQs

How do I use "must be applied" in a sentence?

Use "must be applied" to express a strong obligation or necessity. For example, "The new safety protocols "must be applied" immediately to prevent accidents."

What are some alternatives to "must be applied"?

You can use alternatives like "should be implemented", "needs to be enforced", or "is required to be used" depending on the context. The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "has to be applied" instead of "must be applied"?

While "has to be applied" conveys a similar meaning, "must be applied" is generally considered more formal and authoritative. Use "has to be applied" in less formal contexts.

What's the difference between "should be applied" and "must be applied"?

"Should be applied" suggests a recommendation, while "must be applied" indicates a strict requirement or obligation. "Must be applied" leaves no room for discretion.