was applied to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'was applied to' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe an action that had been done in the past. For example: The new protocol was applied to the clinical trial.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Plaster was applied to lumpy limestone walls.

The New Yorker

Justice was applied to Mr. Ibrahim's case.

The New York Times

ANOVA was applied to log-transformed data.

Nature

No acupuncture was applied to this group.

Nature

Haematoxylin counterstaining was applied to visualize nuclei.

Nature

This was applied to this dataset.

Nature

"No pressure was applied to drop this investigation.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Fans began booing whenever water was applied to the green.

The New York Times - Sports

She says undue pressure was applied to planners in 2006.

The Guardian

Much of the rest was applied to estate taxes.

The New York Times - Arts

Before long, the theory was applied to humans.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was applied to", ensure the subject receiving the action is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "It was applied to improve results", specify "The new algorithm was applied to improve the results".

Common error

Avoid overuse of the passive voice, as it can make your writing sound vague or indirect. While "was applied to" is grammatically correct, consider whether an active voice construction would be clearer and more impactful, such as "Researchers applied the treatment" instead of "The treatment was applied to the patients."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was applied to" functions as a passive verb construction. It indicates that a particular action or process was carried out on a specific subject. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

58%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "was applied to" is a grammatically sound and commonly used passive verb phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It is frequently employed in science, news media, and encyclopedic content to objectively describe a past action. While its usage is appropriate across various contexts, opting for the active voice can enhance clarity. Consider alternatives like "was utilized for" or "was implemented in" to fine-tune your writing. By understanding its grammatical function, purpose, and typical registers, writers can effectively leverage "was applied to" while ensuring precision and impact in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was utilized for

Replaces 'applied' with 'utilized', emphasizing the practical use of something.

was implemented in

Focuses on the implementation aspect rather than the direct application.

was employed for

Similar to 'utilized', but can also imply a strategic choice in using something.

was subjected to

Indicates that something underwent a process or treatment.

was administered to

Suggests a controlled application, often in a medical or scientific context.

was brought to bear on

More formal and emphasizes the exertion of influence or force.

was put into practice with

Highlights the practical implementation and execution of a concept or plan.

was extended to

Indicates that something was previously used in one context and is now being used in another.

was grafted onto

Implies the addition or integration of one element into another, often metaphorically.

was mapped to

Suggests a process of association or correspondence between two entities or systems.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "was applied to" for more active voice?

You can use alternatives like "implemented in", "used for", or "administered to" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "was applied to" and "was utilized for"?

"Was applied to" generally indicates a direct action of putting something onto or into use, while "was utilized for" emphasizes the practical purpose or function that something serves.

Is it better to use "was applied to" or "applied to" in scientific writing?

Both are acceptable, but "was applied to" (passive voice) is often used when the action is more important than the actor. "Applied to" (active voice) is used when the actor is relevant. Choose based on your focus and clarity.

Can "was applied to" be used in contexts other than scientific or formal writing?

Yes, "was applied to" can be used in various contexts, but it tends to be more common in formal or technical writing. In more informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "used on" might be preferred.