apropos 1 of 3

apropos

2 of 3

adverb

as in by the way
by way of interjection or digression I went up to New York last weekend; apropos, have you seen your New York cousins lately?

Synonyms & Similar Words

apropos

3 of 3

preposition

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of apropos are applicable, apposite, germane, material, pertinent, and relevant. While all these words mean "relating to or bearing upon the matter in hand," apropos suggests being both relevant and opportune.

the quip was apropos

When is applicable a more appropriate choice than apropos?

While the synonyms applicable and apropos are close in meaning, 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

Where would apposite be a reasonable alternative to apropos?

The synonyms apposite and apropos are sometimes interchangeable, but apposite suggests a felicitous relevance.

add an apposite quotation to the definition

When could germane be used to replace apropos?

Although the words germane and apropos have much in common, germane may additionally imply a fitness for or appropriateness to the situation or occasion.

a point not germane to the discussion

When is it sensible to use material instead of apropos?

While in some cases nearly identical to apropos, material implies so close a relationship that it cannot be dispensed with without serious alteration of the case.

facts material to the investigation

When would pertinent be a good substitute for apropos?

The words pertinent and apropos are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, pertinent stresses a clear and decisive relevance.

a pertinent observation

When might relevant be a better fit than apropos?

In some situations, the words relevant and apropos are roughly equivalent. However, relevant implies a traceable, significant, logical connection.

found material relevant to her case

Examples 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 apropos
Adjective
If ever there was an apropos song for the most unfortunate of endings to a season that held so much promise. oregonlive, 13 Mar. 2020 John gets all the credit for the apropos CROSS THE BORDER and I NEED SOME SPACE bonuses. New York Times, 26 Feb. 2020 But, considering the way things unfolded for the Blazers on Thursday, his humor was also apropos. oregonlive, 7 Feb. 2020 The group called itself Women to the Front (WTTF, an apropos acronym). Natalie Gontcharova, refinery29.com, 30 Jan. 2020 See all Example Sentences for apropos 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for apropos
Adjective
  • What keeps Leadville relevant and thriving today is outdoor recreation.
    James Dziezynski, Outside Online, 10 Nov. 2024
  • The Cowboys are already on a three-game skid, and losing Prescott could not come at a worse time for a team that is trying to stay relevant in the NFC.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Executives at The Taiwan Creative Content Fest were told Tuesday that Thailand will soon increase its location production rebate system to 30% of applicable spending, up from the current 20%.
    Patrick Frater, Variety, 5 Nov. 2024
  • This principle is applicable in any type of communication and can be adopted right away.
    Adrian Dearnell, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024
Preposition
  • Critics of the deal have cited concerns about the intentions of Nippon Steel regarding continuing domestic production, particularly in blast furnaces.
    David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024
  • This was encapsulated by Belichick’s response about why fans should be optimistic regarding next season.
    Christopher L. Gasper, BostonGlobe.com, 29 Mar. 2023
Adverb
  • His ministry preferred to measure trafficking attempts, which, incidentally, were on the rise.
    Ed Caesar, The New Yorker, 4 Nov. 2024
  • Newsom, not incidentally, appoints all CARB board members and can fire them anytime.
    Thomas Elias, The Mercury News, 1 Nov. 2024
Preposition
  • Walia similarly expressed concerns about the financial aspect of the project.
    Isha Trivedi, The Mercury News, 10 Nov. 2024
  • When the teacher assigns a research project about a local landmark, Barret Eloise and her former friend, along with two boys, choose the scary old Rathfield Manor.
    Mary Ann Grossmann, Twin Cities, 10 Nov. 2024
Preposition
  • Next week: Valor Christian at Columbine, TBA No. 2 Mountain Vista beat No. 15 Fossil Ridge, 49-14: The Golden Eagles’ shock-and-awe attack put Fossil Ridge on its heels from the start, scoring touchdowns on their first four possessions en route to a resounding win.
    Matt Schubert, The Denver Post, 17 Nov. 2024
  • The teenager was discovered at about 7:30 p.m. Friday on the 1100 block of 86th Avenue, according to Oakland police.
    Jakob Rodgers, The Mercury News, 17 Nov. 2024

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Thesaurus Entries Near apropos

Cite this Entry

“Apropos.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/apropos. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on apropos

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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