Definition of applicablenext
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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 Calculating Your Home’s Numerology The specific numbers of your home—the street number and, if applicable, unit identifier—are the most critical parts in determining the numerology. Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Apr. 2026 Nationwide Auto Insurance Learn More Policy highlights Nationwide offers On Your Side® Review, a free annual evaluation to ensure you're fully protected and taking advantage of applicable discounts. Liz Knueven, CNBC, 22 Apr. 2026 Customs and Border Protection will manage the online platform and provide electronic refunds in most cases when applicable, according to court filings. Jared Gans, The Hill, 21 Apr. 2026 That opinion, written by conservative icon Justice Antonin Scalia, found religious practices don’t create exemptions from broadly applicable laws. Lindsay Whitehurst, Chicago Tribune, 20 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for applicable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for applicable
Adjective
  • The heavy investment by the state in the demolition is seen as evidence that the city is serious about developing the applied AI center.
    Kenneth R. Gosselin, Hartford Courant, 24 Apr. 2026
  • His attorney, Ava Benach, said Vedam hopes to live with a relative in Sacramento and has been offered a spot in Oregon State University’s doctoral program in applied anthropology.
    Mark Scolforo, Los Angeles Times, 2 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • With Iran being on the world stage even more today, this story of hostage diplomacy and diplomatic terrorism remains as relevant as ever.
    Kevin Giraud, Variety, 24 Apr. 2026
  • The changes start up front, where, instead of a traditional instrument cluster, the dash is crowned by BMW’s Panoramic iDrive, a display that runs along the bottom of the windshield from A-pilar to A-pilar and shows all relevant vehicle info.
    Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 24 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • People in this area are urged to properly dispose of cigarette butts, matches, and any other flammable items in appropriate containers.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 25 Apr. 2026
  • Oh my gosh, ticked off is not the appropriate word.
    Ticked Off, The Orlando Sentinel, 25 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • There is some evidence that psilocybin may be useful to treat depression in some people, but there have been just a few clinical trials.
    Claire Cameron, Scientific American, 24 Apr. 2026
  • There’s a useful map of the world’s critical chokepoints here.
    Jim Edwards, Fortune, 24 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • This will require recurring cost, however, making the recurring purchase of purified water for a filterless humidifier is just as suitable a solution.
    BestReviews, Mercury News, 30 Apr. 2026
  • It should be noted that maples or any other plants that require regular moisture and protection from summer sun are most suitable for container growing.
    Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 30 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The quirky family dramedy featured a now-iconic soundtrack by Denver’s gypsy-punk-folk-mariachi act DeVotchKa, and having that band play the 20th anniversary seems like a fitting tribute to the title that helped turn DeVotchKa into an international touring force.
    John Wenzel, Denver Post, 30 Apr. 2026
  • King Charles is a longtime environmentalist and advocate for sustainability, so the visit to the Harlem Grown nonprofit was a fitting one.
    Ivana Kottasová, CNN Money, 29 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The Moon steadies Jupiter’s influence, helping practical decisions create emotional ease.
    Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 27 Apr. 2026
  • In these systems, the active materials tend to degrade and leak through the membrane, a process that rapidly wears out the battery and limits its practical lifespan.
    Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 27 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Kirsten Kelly-Vargas and her husband, Gary, felt a similar urgency to acquire the proper attire for the occasion.
    Audrey Pachuta, Chicago Tribune, 1 May 2026
  • Ashlyn Needham wrote in Southern Living that proper hanging matters more than people realize.
    Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Sacbee.com, 30 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Applicable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/applicable. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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