which applies

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "which applies" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific situation, rule, or condition that is relevant to the context being discussed. Example: "Please review the guidelines and identify the section which applies to your case."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'd like to make an important point, which applies to all my cooking.

The New York Times - Food

None of which applies to Turkey.

The New York Times

In history, there is cliometrics, which applies econometrics to history.

The New York Times - Tech

Mr. Clement responded that the challenge is to the mandate, which applies to almost all Americans, rather than the penalty, which applies to a subset of them.

The New York Times

This bill merely spells out clearly that which applies to other forms of illegal behavior.

The New York Times

Amazon has a similar extension, which applies to items bought directly.

The Guardian - Money

Charities are not subject to the FOI act, which applies only to public authorities.

The Guardian

Plus, it's so much more specific than "bi-racial," which applies to any old miscegenation combination.

The Guardian - Opinion

The show is called The Poet Speaks, which applies to both Ginsberg and Smith.

The Guardian - Music

Shariah Law, which applies in Saudi Arabia, does not accept statements made under duress.

The New Yorker

It is a rule which applies equally to prescription drugs, and to government regulation of drugmakers.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "which applies", ensure the noun it refers to is clear to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of 'the rule which applies', specify 'the rule regarding overtime which applies to salaried employees'.

Common error

A common mistake is using 'that' instead of "which" in nonrestrictive clauses. Remember, "which applies" should be used when the clause provides additional, non-essential information, set off by commas. If the clause is essential to the sentence's meaning, use 'that applies'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "which applies" functions as a relative clause, specifically a nonrestrictive clause, introducing additional information about a preceding noun or noun phrase. As shown by Ludwig AI, this clause provides extra detail that, while helpful, isn't essential for understanding the core meaning of the sentence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "which applies" functions as a nonrestrictive relative clause, adding extra details to a noun or noun phrase. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across diverse contexts, including news, science, and formal writing. To use it effectively, ensure clarity and accuracy, and avoid misusing 'that' in its place. Common alternatives include phrases like "that is relevant" or "that is applicable". Its high frequency and authoritative sources make "which applies" a valuable tool for precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that is applicable

Emphasizes the suitability or relevance of something in a particular context.

that is relevant

Highlights the importance and connection of something to the matter at hand.

that pertains to

Suggests a direct connection or relationship to a specific subject.

that concerns

Focuses on the direct involvement or impact of something on a particular subject.

that is in effect

Highlights that something is currently active and operational.

that is pertinent

Indicates the direct and clear relevance of something.

that holds true

Emphasizes the validity and accuracy of something in a given situation.

that is enforced

Focuses on the active implementation and application of something.

that takes effect

Highlights the moment something becomes operational or applicable.

that is implemented

Highlights that something is put in practice and is being used.

FAQs

How can I use "which applies" in a sentence?

"Which applies" is used to add non-essential information about a noun. For example, "The new policy, which applies to all employees, will take effect next month".

What are some alternatives to "which applies"?

You can use alternatives like "that is applicable", "that is relevant", or "that pertains to" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "that applies" instead of "which applies"?

Both are grammatically correct, but they serve different purposes. "That applies" is used in restrictive clauses that are essential to the sentence's meaning, while "which applies" is used in nonrestrictive clauses that provide additional information.

What's the difference between "which applies" and "which is applicable"?

"Which applies" is a more concise and direct way of saying "which is applicable". The longer version is more formal and less common.