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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 Aetna said that’s because its vaccine coverage is based on the recommendations made by the CDC’s advisory committee, as well as any applicable laws. Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald, 12 Sep. 2025 Rather, it is based on the standards applicable for obtaining emergency relief from this Court. Robert Alexander, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Sep. 2025 Results may not be applicable to everyone. Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 11 Sep. 2025 Course dates are either February 2-3, or 7-8 with pricing starting at $3,980 CAD plus applicable provincial taxes. Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 9 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for applicable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for applicable
Adjective
  • That includes providing students with applied and work-based learning experiences in high school, as well as career exposure and exploration opportunities that begin in age-appropriate ways in middle school.
    Matt Gandal, Forbes.com, 10 Sep. 2025
  • However, the study can only show an association and not a direct cause and effect, said Duval, who now directs applied research at CReATe Fertility Centre, a fertility clinic in Toronto.
    Sandee LaMotte, CNN Money, 9 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • This is particularly relevant in the case of ChatGPT, as OpenAI is, as of writing, obliged by a US federal court order to store all conversations, even those deleted by users or conducted in its Temporary Chat mode.
    Bernard Marr, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025
  • Nir Kshetri does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
    Nir Kshetri, The Conversation, 14 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • This sweater tank top is appropriate for fall’s crisp weather yet ideal for a warmer day spent outside.
    Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 12 Sep. 2025
  • Mop-up and patrol will continue where appropriate to secure and strengthen containment.
    CA WILDFIRE BOT, Sacbee.com, 12 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • These are environmentally friendly and useful for carrying more snacks on your flight home.
    Jessie Beck, AFAR Media, 16 Sep. 2025
  • Our expert take The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is an excellent business card with useful benefits, valuable rewards and a generous welcome bonus.
    Jason Stauffer, CNBC, 15 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Scientists revealed that the 1200-volt, 400-amp power module is suitable for use in power grids and even heavy-duty vehicles such as next-generation aircraft and military vehicles.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 13 Sep. 2025
  • Nonfunctional Gadgets and Tech Outdated gadgets are rarely suitable for donation.
    Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • That bout was promoted as his return to the ring after a 19-year retirement and was widely regarded as a fitting sendoff.
    Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 Sep. 2025
  • Sinzer, as well wine director Ellis Srubas-Giammanco, also just snagged Michelin’s 2024 New York Sommelier award, making Stars a fitting step on their wine journey.
    Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 12 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Its early pilots include placing a humanoid in a car factory to fetch and carry parts, hinting at a practical path into routine industrial tasks.
    Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 10 Sep. 2025
  • Below, Forbes Human Resources Council members share practical strategies middle managers can use to strengthen relationships and create a more positive workplace culture.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • After the 1-0 win, Bright spoke to the media about being ‘proper English’.
    Charlotte Harpur, New York Times, 13 Sep. 2025
  • The proper name for the show is IAA Mobility 2025, short for Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung.
    Neil Winton, Forbes.com, 13 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Applicable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/applicable. Accessed 17 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on applicable

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