which apply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "which apply" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to introduce a clause that provides additional information about the subject of the sentence. Example: The rules, which apply to all employees, state that no personal calls should be made during work hours.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

My choice would be parity quotas, which apply to men and women alike.

The Guardian

S4C is respecting contractual and legal obligations which apply in this matter".

The Guardian

Unlike Section 201 cases, which apply to all imports, antidumping actions are aimed at specific countries.

The New York Times

There are different kinds of stamp duty, which apply to different purchases.

The Guardian - Money

Thinking that term might be hyperbole, I looked up various definitions, many of which apply.

The New York Times - Magazine

Our chart shows maximum tax rates, which apply to most big firms, on retained earnings.

The Economist

In 1950 California got 60% of its revenues from sales taxes, which apply only to goods.

The Economist

Some include "aggregation" rules, which apply such mechanisms across different yields and maturities.

The Economist

The rules, which apply only to federal Web sites and property, were devised by the interagency United States Access Board.

The New York Times

A Tory government will instead focus on repatriating employment and social legislation which apply to the UK.

The Guardian

In fact, many aspects of European travel are covered by cross-national agreements which apply to all EU citizens.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "which apply", ensure that the clause is nonrestrictive and adds extra information, setting it off with commas. This improves clarity and readability.

Common error

Avoid using "that" instead of "which" when introducing a nonrestrictive clause. "Which" is appropriate for clauses that add extra, non-essential information, while "that" is used for restrictive clauses that are essential to the sentence's meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "which apply" functions as a relative clause introducing additional, non-essential information about the noun it modifies. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. Examples show it clarifies which specific rules, conditions, or principles are being referenced.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "which apply" is a versatile phrase used to introduce nonrestrictive clauses that provide additional information. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. It’s most frequently found in news, media, and scientific sources, offering clarity and specificity. When using "which apply", ensure it is properly set off with commas and that it refers to a plural subject. Alternatives include "that are applicable" and "that are relevant", but the best choice depends on the specific context. Avoiding confusion with "that" and ensuring subject-verb agreement are key to using this phrase effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that are applicable

Replaces "which apply" with a more formal and direct phrasing, focusing on applicability.

that are relevant

Emphasizes the pertinence of the items or conditions being discussed.

that are in effect

Highlights that the items being discussed are currently operational or valid.

that are pertinent

Focuses on the direct relevance and significance of the items.

that are appropriate

Suggests the items are suitable or fitting for a specific context.

that are valid

Emphasizes the correctness or legitimacy of the items.

that are implemented

Highlights the execution or application of specific measures or rules.

that are enforced

Focuses on the active enforcement or maintenance of rules or conditions.

that are utilized

Emphasizes the use or application of specific methods or resources.

that are exercised

Highlights the active use or implementation of powers or rights.

FAQs

How do I use "which apply" in a sentence?

Use "which apply" to introduce a nonrestrictive clause that provides additional, non-essential information about the subject. For example: "The guidelines, which apply to all Times journalists, were last revised in 2011."

What can I say instead of "which apply"?

You can use alternatives like "that are applicable", "that are relevant", or "that are in effect", depending on the context.

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

While both can be grammatically correct, "which apply" is typically used for nonrestrictive clauses, whereas "that apply" is used for restrictive clauses. The choice depends on whether the clause is essential to the sentence's meaning.

What's the difference between "which apply" and "which applies"?

"Which apply" is used when referring to a plural subject, while "which applies" is used when referring to a singular subject. For example: "The rules, which apply to all employees..." versus "The rule, which applies to new hires...".