pertains only to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pertains only to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to specify that something is relevant or applicable exclusively to a particular subject or context. Example: "This policy pertains only to employees who work remotely."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

"Our study pertains only to blood pressure.

The New York Times

But double jeopardy pertains only to a specific judicial realm.

The New Yorker

But that pertains only to music, not to any other media.

The Economist

(The bill pertains only to lawn fertilizer and does not include commonly used pesticides for grubs and other insects).

The New York Times

It pertains only to bans on "campaign contributions by individual contractors to candidates, parties, or traditional PACs that make contributions to candidates and parties".

The New Yorker

(Amazon also points out that all of this pertains only to Netflix. Hulu's source resolution, for example, is identical on both tablets: 480p).

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

Some of them pertain only to the really freaky boys".

The New York Times - Arts

Our objections pertain only to research on stem cells derived from embryo cloning.

The New York Times

Although the regime did discourage open anti-Semitism, this directive pertained only to Berlin.

The New York Times

Mr. Zustiak had mistakenly believed that this clause pertained only to "Weddings and Beheadings, " the work commissioned by the Y.

The New York Times - Arts

The criminal charges against Sandusky pertain only to boys named as Victims 1 through 10 in court records.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pertains only to", ensure that the limitation or scope is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify the exact subject or context to which the statement applies. This will enhance clarity and prevent misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid using "pertains only to" when the statement could reasonably apply to other situations. If there are exceptions or related cases, it's better to qualify the statement or use a more inclusive phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pertains only to" functions as a restrictive modifier, specifying the limited scope or application of a statement, rule, or condition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and widely used. Examples show it defining the boundaries of applicability in various situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pertains only to" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to clearly define the scope or relevance of a statement. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and suitable for various contexts. It is particularly useful in formal writing, news reporting, and scientific explanations to avoid ambiguity. When using "pertains only to", always ensure that the limitation is explicitly stated. Related phrases include "applies exclusively to" and "relates solely to", which offer similar but slightly nuanced ways to express exclusivity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

applies exclusively to

Emphasizes a strict and limited application.

relates solely to

Highlights the unique connection or relationship.

is limited to

Directly states the boundaries of applicability.

concerns specifically with

Focuses on particular issue or subject with which something deals with.

is restricted to

Implies a constrained or controlled application.

is relevant only for

Specifies for whom or what something is important.

is applicable solely for

Highlights that something is working for a unique context.

exclusively involves

Suggests the act of dealing with something with no others.

solely encompasses

Highlights that something includes with uniqueness.

is uniquely applicable to

Emphasizes the unique quality or working in a specific situation.

FAQs

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

Use "pertains only to" to specify that something is relevant or applicable exclusively to a particular subject or context. For example: "This rule pertains only to employees who work remotely."

What can I say instead of "pertains only to"?

You can use alternatives like "applies exclusively to", "relates solely to", or "is limited to depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "pertains just to" instead of "pertains only to"?

While "pertains just to" is similar in meaning, "pertains only to" is more common and generally preferred in formal writing. "Pertains just to" might be considered less formal.

What is the difference between "applies to" and "pertains only to"?

"Applies to" indicates general relevance, while "pertains only to" specifies exclusive relevance. "Pertains only to" narrows the scope significantly. For example, if something "applies to" all employees, it affects everyone; if it "pertains only to" remote employees, it affects only them.