used to apply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "used to apply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a method or process that was previously employed or is no longer in use. Example: "The guidelines that were used to apply for the grant have changed this year."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Used to apply for social security card.

Columbia University

The "multi" point used to apply only to blinking lights.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The tool wcs_update is used to apply the offsets.

Harvard University

"About 15,000 used to apply and they would take on 14, usually all Oxbridge".

The Guardian

Many existing United Nations mechanisms could be used to apply pressure on Iran.

The Guardian - Opinion

Coverslips were mounted on a closed perfusion chamber used to apply different media to the cells.

Nature

Denatured alcohol is used for thinning shellac and cleaning brushes used to apply shellac.

The New York Times

It's attached with spirit gum, a classic tool used to apply different makeup effects.

The New York Times

This much sounds like the kind of dubious decoration university collegiums and early-music groups used to apply ad lib.

The New York Times - Arts

His father owns Coating Application Specialists, a Chicago-based developer of industrial machinery used to apply paint and other materials.

The New York Times - Style

Their judgment is not legally binding but can be used to apply pressure on states in human rights cases.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "used to apply", ensure it's clear what is no longer being applied and why. This avoids ambiguity and enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "used to apply" without specifying the object or context to which it was previously applied. For instance, instead of saying "This rule used to apply", specify "This rule used to apply to international students" for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "used to apply" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating a past action or state that is no longer current. Ludwig provides numerous examples across various contexts where this phrase is employed to describe discontinued rules, methods, or practices.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

31%

Academia

23%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "used to apply" is a verb phrase that describes a past action or state no longer in effect. As Ludwig AI shows, it's grammatically correct and very commonly used across various domains including news, science, and academia. The phrase serves to highlight changes over time, contrasting past conditions with the present. While generally neutral in register, its formality can vary depending on the context. To ensure clarity, it's best to specify what exactly was previously applied. Common errors include omitting necessary context. Ludwig also offers several alternatives like "formerly employed" or "previously utilized" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

formerly employed

Focuses on previous use or application, emphasizing a change in current practice.

previously utilized

Highlights that something was used before, differing in word choice.

once implemented

Emphasizes the past implementation of a process or system.

applied in the past

Directly states that application occurred at an earlier time.

would apply

Indicates a habitual or repeated action in the past.

employed to implement

Highlights the method used for implementation, with a shift in focus.

utilized for application

Formal phrasing that specifies the purpose of application.

once used for

Simple way of saying that something was used in the past for a specific reason.

formerly in use

Emphasizes that something was used before and is no longer in use.

previously in service

Indicates that something was actively used or employed.

FAQs

How can I use "used to apply" in a sentence?

You can use "used to apply" to describe a rule, method, or practice that was employed in the past but is no longer in effect. For example, "This discount "used to apply" to senior citizens, but it has been discontinued".

What is an alternative to "used to apply"?

Alternatives include "formerly employed", "previously utilized", or "once implemented". Choose the alternative that best fits the context of your sentence.

Is it correct to say "use to apply" instead of "used to apply"?

No, "use to apply" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is ""used to apply"", with the 'd' at the end of 'used'.

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

"Used to apply" indicates a past state or condition that is no longer true, while "would apply" suggests a repeated action or habitual practice in the past. For example, "This regulation "used to apply" before the amendment" versus "The teacher "would apply" extra credit for perfect attendance".