were applied to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'were applied to' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when talking about something that was used or had an effect on something else. For example, "The same techniques that were applied to the first project were used on the second."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Nicknames like Farmer and Parson were applied to them.

The New Yorker

The techniques were applied to at least 14 suspects.

The Guardian

The titles Prophet and Rabbi also were applied to him.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Various tests were applied to each of them.

The Economist

These techniques of objective measurement were applied to prosodic study.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Adjectives such as sexy, intimate, breathy, husky and suggestive were applied to her singing.

The New York Times

Bankruptcy protection, if it were applied to mortgage loans, could succeed where voluntary efforts have failed.

The New York Times

PALICC criteria were applied to define PARDS.

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

Biological assays were applied to demonstrate efficiency.

Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications

Periodic boundary conditions were applied to avoid surface effects.

Protein & Cell

The empirical absorption corrections were applied to all intensity data.

Chemistry Central Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "were applied to", ensure the subject receiving the action is clearly defined. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "were applied to" when an active voice construction would be more direct and concise. For example, instead of "The solution were applied to the problem", consider "Researchers applied the solution to the problem".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were applied to" functions as a passive construction, indicating that a specific action or process was performed on a particular subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

54%

News & Media

29%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "were applied to" is a grammatically correct and frequently used passive construction that indicates the implementation or utilization of something. As Ludwig AI highlights, this phrase is widely accepted in written English and demonstrates its versatility across various contexts. Predominantly found in scientific and news-related sources, its usage is best suited for neutral to formal registers. To ensure clarity and conciseness, consider the active voice when appropriate. Remember to clearly define the subject receiving the action to avoid ambiguity. This guide offers insights into the proper usage, alternatives, and common pitfalls associated with "were applied to", empowering you to use it effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were utilized for

Focuses on the utility or purpose of the application, rather than just the action.

were implemented on

Emphasizes the execution or deployment of a plan or system.

were subjected to

Highlights that the subject underwent a process or action, often implying testing or scrutiny.

were administered to

Common in medical or formal contexts, indicating a treatment or procedure.

were employed in

Similar to 'utilized,' but can also mean 'given a job' or 'used for a specific task'.

were put into practice on

Stresses the transition from theory to practical application.

were brought to bear on

A more formal and emphatic way of saying 'applied to,' often suggesting a forceful or impactful application.

were harnessed for

Implies controlling and directing something for a specific purpose.

were directed towards

Indicates a specific target or goal of the application.

were leveraged for

Suggests using something to gain an advantage or achieve a desired outcome.

FAQs

How to use "were applied to" in a sentence?

The phrase "were applied to" indicates that something was used or implemented on a particular subject. For instance, "New safety measures "were applied to" the construction site to prevent accidents."

What are some alternatives to "were applied to"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "were utilized for", "were implemented on", or "were subjected to".

Is it better to use active or passive voice with "were applied to"?

While "were applied to" is grammatically correct, using the active voice can often make your writing more direct. Instead of "The rules "were applied to" everyone", consider "The authorities applied the rules to everyone".

What's the difference between "were applied to" and "were used for"?

"Were applied to" suggests a direct action or implementation, whereas "were used for" emphasizes the purpose or function. For instance, "The funds "were applied to" infrastructure improvements" indicates an action. "The funds "were used for" infrastructure improvements" indicates the funds' purpose.