Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of relevant are applicable, apposite, apropos, germane, material, and pertinent. While all these words mean "relating to or bearing upon the matter in hand," relevant implies a traceable, significant, logical connection.

found material relevant to her case

When is it sensible to use applicable instead of relevant?

While in some cases nearly identical to relevant, 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 can apposite be used instead of relevant?

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

add an apposite quotation to the definition

Where would apropos be a reasonable alternative to relevant?

The synonyms apropos and relevant are sometimes interchangeable, but apropos suggests being both relevant and opportune.

the quip was apropos

When might germane be a better fit than relevant?

The words germane and relevant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, germane may additionally imply a fitness for or appropriateness to the situation or occasion.

a point not germane to the discussion

When could material be used to replace relevant?

The words material and relevant can be used in similar contexts, but material implies so close a relationship that it cannot be dispensed with without serious alteration of the case.

facts material to the investigation

In what contexts can pertinent take the place of relevant?

Although the words pertinent and relevant have much in common, pertinent stresses a clear and decisive relevance.

a pertinent observation

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 relevant Any relevant video can be sent to Officer Ryan Michalowski at rmichalowski@easthavenpolice.com. Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 21 Jan. 2025 The researchers think one of the existing goals, in particular, is relevant to the space problem. Tereza Pultarova, Space.com, 20 Jan. 2025 Newsweek spoke to a number of experts who have unpacked the millennial travel trends that are set to remain relevant in the coming year. Justin Gest, Newsweek, 20 Jan. 2025 Click here to follow Sports betting on The Athletic and get relevant stories in your personalised feed. Darren Richman, The Athletic, 20 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for relevant 

Thesaurus Entries Near relevant

Cite this Entry

“Relevant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/relevant. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on relevant

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