Can one say "with application to" instead of "with applications to" if only one application is intended?

Question

I am writing a scientific article in which I am presenting a certain scientific approach. In this article, I highlight a (i.e. one) specific application of this approach. In my title, I'd thus like to say

An approach to ..., with application to ....

However, using the singular "application" in the expression "with application to" feels weird to me. Is this phrasing correct or should I rephrase the sentence altogether? I've seen it used in other scientific article's titles by Googling "with application to", but maybe that's just because I'm looking for it literally.
EDIT: The entire title of the article as is reads: "A Generalized Approach to Operational, Globally Optimal Aircraft Mission Performance Evaluation, with Application to Direct Lift Control"

LPH · Accepted Answer

"With application to" is correct (ngram). What you can use in a title you can use as well in a paragraph.
Since there is but one application why not just write "with an application to"? Would that feel weird?

Anton · Answer

Your original question is clear, stating the bare bones of the issue, which is commonplace in scientific and mathematical writing. The full quotation is helpful in confirming this clarity.
To use “with application to ... “reads clearly and unambiguously. Such constructs are common in scientific writing. If you were to use “... an application ...”, it would suggest (slightly) a focus on one specific area.

Greybeard · Answer

The distinction between application and "applications" is that "application" is an uncountable noun in that context and thus expresses general applicability.
Applications is the unmodified plural of "an application" and the reader will expect suggestions for applications.

Can one say "with application to" instead of "with applications to" if only one application is intended?

3 Answers

Add your own answers!

Ask a Question