when applicable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'when applicable' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to indicate when certain conditions or restrictions are applicable or relevant in a particular situation. For example: "Strict safety protocols must be adhered to at all times, with exceptions made only when applicable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When applicable, neighborhood subcontractors were hired.

The New York Times

When applicable, he uses them as teaching tools.

The New York Times - Sports

Arm yourself on the Internet or get a curriculum vitae or a press release, when applicable.

The New York Times - Magazine

When applicable, use reply-all to unleash your fury on a team member.

The Guardian

(Voters were able to check multiple job titles when applicable).

Forbes

For the prospective study, t tests were used when applicable.

Gynecological Surgery

The orange dashed lines indicate influent concentrations when applicable.

Geochemical Transactions

Subsequently, data was analyzed for statistical figures when applicable.

Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences

When applicable, they are also quicker than Gaussian elimination.

Journal of Computational Physics

Google also will display pricing information for the content on these services, when applicable.

TechCrunch

The app helps users find street parking and garage parking nearby, when applicable.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when applicable" to streamline instructions or guidelines, avoiding unnecessary detail for cases where a condition doesn't apply.

Common error

Avoid using "when applicable" when it's already clear from the context that a condition only applies sometimes. Redundancy can make your writing sound less concise and professional.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when applicable" functions as an adverbial clause, modifying a verb or clause by indicating the circumstances under which something is true or should be done. Ludwig AI confirms its validity for this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

31%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "when applicable" is a versatile and commonly used adverbial clause that adds clarity and precision to instructions and guidelines. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for diverse contexts, although writers should avoid overuse in redundant situations. Its prevalence in both news and scientific publications, among others, demonstrates its broad applicability. To enhance writing, remember to use it strategically to qualify statements and prevent misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

where relevant

Changes the focus to the location or context where something applies.

if appropriate

Emphasizes the suitability of something in a given situation.

as appropriate

Similar to 'if appropriate' but with a slightly more formal tone.

where necessary

Shifts the focus to the necessity of something in a particular context.

if required

Highlights the requirement for something under certain conditions.

as needed

Indicates that something should be done only when a need arises.

where suitable

Focuses on the suitability of something, similar to 'if appropriate'.

if the situation warrants

A more descriptive and formal alternative, specifying that the situation must justify the action.

to the extent applicable

Adds a degree of precision, specifying the degree to which something applies.

subject to applicability

Highlights that the applicability is a condition that must be met.

FAQs

How can I use "when applicable" in a sentence?

Use "when applicable" to indicate that a particular rule, instruction, or condition only applies in certain situations. For example, "Complete this section of the form, "when applicable"."

What's a more formal alternative to "when applicable"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "where relevant" or "to the extent applicable" depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to use "when applicable" if the context already implies it?

Yes, using "when applicable" can be redundant if it's already clear that a condition only applies sometimes. Omit the phrase for conciseness. For example, instead of saying "Attach supporting documents, "when applicable"", simply say "Attach supporting documents" if it's understood that not everyone will have them.

Which is better: "if applicable" or "when applicable"?

"If applicable" and ""when applicable"" are largely interchangeable, but "when applicable" might be slightly preferred when referring to a specific circumstance triggering the applicability, while "if applicable" is more general.