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Synonym Chooser

How is the word applicable different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of applicable are apposite, apropos, germane, material, pertinent, and relevant. While all these words mean "relating to or bearing upon the matter in hand," applicable suggests the fitness of bringing a general rule or principle to bear upon a particular case.

the rule is not applicable in this case

When is apposite a more appropriate choice than applicable?

The meanings of apposite and applicable largely overlap; however, apposite suggests a felicitous relevance.

add an apposite quotation to the definition

When would apropos be a good substitute for applicable?

While in some cases nearly identical to applicable, apropos suggests being both relevant and opportune.

the quip was apropos

In what contexts can germane take the place of applicable?

In some situations, the words germane and applicable are roughly equivalent. However, germane may additionally imply a fitness for or appropriateness to the situation or occasion.

a point not germane to the discussion

When might material be a better fit than applicable?

Although the words material and applicable have much in common, material implies so close a relationship that it cannot be dispensed with without serious alteration of the case.

facts material to the investigation

When can pertinent be used instead of applicable?

The synonyms pertinent and applicable are sometimes interchangeable, but pertinent stresses a clear and decisive relevance.

a pertinent observation

When is it sensible to use relevant instead of applicable?

The words relevant and applicable are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, relevant implies a traceable, significant, logical connection.

found material relevant to her case

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of applicable As amended, board policy now limits benefits to current commissioners and eligible family members only, when applicable. Tess Kenny, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2025 The Trust may incur certain extraordinary, non-recurring expenses that are not assumed by the Sponsor, including taxes and governmental charges, any applicable brokerage commissions, and extraordinary legal fees and expenses. Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 17 Mar. 2025 Programs designed to meet the needs of this demographic often focus on equipping students with skills that are not just theoretical but highly applicable in the workplace. Maja Zelihic, Forbes, 15 Mar. 2025 The Alien and Enemies Act is also only applicable under the conditions of war, which has not yet been declared by Congress, according to the Brennan Center. Ashleigh Fields, The Hill, 15 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for applicable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for applicable
Adjective
  • While a regional court in Cologne initially recognized four of Birkenstock’s shoe models as works of applied art and granted the company’s orders in 2017, a higher regional court in the city later overturned the orders on appeal in 2022.
    Karen K. Ho, ARTnews.com, 21 Feb. 2025
  • In 1994, the applied mathematician Peter Shor was inspired by a recent oracle result to develop a fast quantum algorithm for factoring large numbers—a task whose apparent difficulty underlies the cryptographic systems that keep our online data secure.
    Ben Brubaker, WIRED, 2 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Chomps customers utilize a search function available on the Chomps website to see if their products were impacted by the recall or can check if the relevant lot code, listed below, can be found on the Chomps stick.
    Amaris Encinas, USA TODAY, 22 Mar. 2025
  • The salary vote is especially relevant for Lago, who is facing a challenge from one of the commissioners who supported the raises, Menendez.
    Tess Riski, Miami Herald, 22 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Zeb Scoville and Emily what would be the appropriate tagline to put on this and immediately everybody said, 'Tough and Competent.
    Robert Z. Pearlman, Space.com, 31 Mar. 2025
  • Try to consult with the appropriate professionals if needed.
    Kyle Thomas, People.com, 30 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Ndiaye likes coming inside on his stronger right foot, while McNeil is more useful going on the outside and using his left.
    Patrick Boyland, New York Times, 26 Mar. 2025
  • But wolves can be useful on the land, killing deer and elk that have contracted chronic wasting disease (CWD).
    Ted Williams, Denver Post, 26 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • While sisal rugs are typically suitable outdoors, this particular one is recommended for indoor use only.
    Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 20 Mar. 2025
  • That’s because the duo has found much more suitable habitat for the animals than had been previously documented.
    ByRefael Kubersky, science.org, 20 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • This feels fitting for a company that aims to make people roll around with raucous laughter.
    Ollie Barder, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025
  • Even more fitting is the sustainable aspect of the collection, which draws awareness to dwindling marine life.
    Violet Goldstone, WWD, 20 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • This April, the discount grocery chain is stocking its shelves with adorable decor, practical porch and patio furniture, and charming Easter tableware—plus snacks, appetizers, mains, and desserts with seasonal flair.
    Abigail Wilt, Southern Living, 28 Mar. 2025
  • In addition to the technological advances required to put a human on Mars, however, is the very practical necessity of developing sustainable food sources in space.
    Margherita Bassi, Smithsonian Magazine, 28 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • However, a movie can’t be a hit at the international box office without a proper theatrical release internationally.
    Simon Thompson, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025
  • Why does a team that desires to run the ball well not invest in a proper fullback?
    Mike DeFabo, New York Times, 27 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Applicable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/applicable. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025.

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