only applicable to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only applicable to" can be used in written English.
It is used when one is discussing a rule, law, principle, or concept that is specific and does not apply more broadly. For example: "This policy is only applicable to those who have worked for the company for five years or more."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

where and contributions are only applicable to TCP- or TFRC-based applications.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

And it's not only applicable to friends.

The New York Times

In the real world [insert thing only applicable to small English town].

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr. Bush's culture of life is only applicable to the potentiality of life.

The New York Times

One respect in which the MDGs failed was that they were seen as only applicable to developing countries.

The Guardian

"Are the laws of nature somehow suspended for 'good' purposes and only applicable to the 'bad' guys?

The New York Times

● The offer is only applicable to the following films: A Separation, Amour, The Great Beauty or Ida only.

The Guardian

Usually, it is only applicable to regular grid data.

Data Science and Engineering

However, the worked-example effect is only applicable to novices.

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

Our method is only applicable to dynamic MRI methods.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

It is only applicable to SiNWs with diameter >15 nm.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "only applicable to" to clearly define the scope and limitations of a rule, policy, or statement. This prevents misinterpretations and ensures that the intended audience or situation is correctly identified.

Common error

Avoid using "only applicable to" when the statement has broader implications or applications. Ensure that the restriction is genuine and not overlooking other relevant scenarios or groups. Vague limitations reduce the overall clarity of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only applicable to" functions as a restrictive modifier. It narrows down the scope of a statement, rule, or characteristic to a specific subset. As supported by Ludwig, it indicates limitations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

39%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "only applicable to" is a versatile tool for specifying conditions and limiting the scope of statements. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts, particularly in scientific, news, and formal business communications. When writing, remember to use it when you genuinely intend to restrict the application of something, and avoid overgeneralization.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exclusively for

This alternative emphasizes that something is solely intended or designed for a specific purpose or group.

solely relevant to

Highlights that something is pertinent or connected to a particular subject or situation and nothing else.

specifically designed for

Indicates that something has been created or modified for a particular use or group.

restricted to

Implies that something is limited or confined to a certain scope or set of conditions.

limited to

Similar to 'restricted to', emphasizing a boundary or constraint on who or what it affects.

pertinent only to

This emphasizes that the information or rule is relevant only within a certain context.

uniquely suited for

Suggests that something is particularly well-matched or appropriate for a specific purpose.

solely for the use of

Clearly indicates that something is to be used only by a specific person or group.

exclusively designed with

Stresses the unique design intent for a particular purpose or user.

particularly relevant in

Highlights special significance or importance in a specific context.

FAQs

How can I use "only applicable to" in a sentence?

You can use "only applicable to" to specify that a rule, law, or guideline applies to a limited set of circumstances or people. For example, "This discount is "only applicable to" students with a valid ID".

What phrases are similar to "only applicable to"?

Similar phrases include "exclusively for", "solely relevant to", or "specifically designed for". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "only applicable to"?

No, it's not typically redundant. "Only applicable to" clearly states that something applies solely and exclusively to the mentioned group or situation, which helps avoid ambiguity.

What's the difference between "only applicable to" and "generally applicable to"?

"Only applicable to" means something is limited to a specific case, while "generally applicable to" means something usually applies but might have exceptions. For example, a tax break might be "only applicable to" small businesses, but regulations are "generally applicable to" all businesses.