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 The deal includes language that the use of the models will be consistent with civil liberties, constitutional rights and applicable law, the source said. Queenie Wong, Los Angeles Times, 1 May 2026 The director’s name will be listed on the statuette plaque after the film title and, if applicable, the country or region. Marcus Jones, IndieWire, 1 May 2026 The award will be accepted by the director, and the director’s name will be listed on the statuette plaque after the film title, and, if applicable, the country or region. Rebecca Ford, Vanity Fair, 1 May 2026 The director’s name will appear on the statuette plaque after the film title and, if applicable, the country or region. Clayton Davis, Variety, 1 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for applicable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for applicable
Adjective
  • Access to capable hardware lowers barriers, speeds iteration, and enables real-world testing beyond simulations, accelerating progress in embodied AI, especially in manipulation and applied robotics.
    Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 1 May 2026
  • 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
Adjective
  • Early gains build momentum, while long-term planning ensures that systems are scalable and relevant.
    Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 1 May 2026
  • The bones are the most relevant components.
    Daniel Popper, New York Times, 1 May 2026
Adjective
  • The Messings, to their credit, ultimately agreed that a social-rehabilitation program was the appropriate path for me.
    Chang-rae Lee, New Yorker, 3 May 2026
  • Not only atypical job seekers like me, but also people looking for housing, appropriate medical treatment, and a fair financial shake from lenders.
    Michelle Dally, Denver Post, 2 May 2026
Adjective
  • Our expert take The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is a low-fee card with generous cash-back rewards and useful ongoing benefits, such as a monthly Disney Bundle credit.
    Liz Knueven, CNBC, 2 May 2026
  • Sites that preserve soft-bodied organisms are even rarer because soft tissues decompose more easily, making these places especially useful for piecing together prehistoric ecosystems.
    Marlowe Starling, Quanta Magazine, 1 May 2026
Adjective
  • As a major destination for outdoor parties ranging from pop-up shops for local vendors to off-season wedding celebrations, the team informs guests of any events on the agenda before booking, so each stay is suitable to visitor preferences.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 May 2026
  • By that point, then owner James Dolan, the controversial businessman whose family has a controlling interest in the companies that oversee MSG and the New York Knicks, cast the team out of New York City and up to Westchester County Center, a microdome more suitable for high schoolers.
    Yohana Desta, Vanity Fair, 7 May 2026
Adjective
  • How fitting, then, that a primitive predator from five hundred and sixty million years ago, a fossilized example of which was discovered near where the young David grew up, should have been named Auroralumina attenboroughii in his honor.
    Anthony Lane, New Yorker, 8 May 2026
  • The San Francisco Giants announced a fitting tribute to one of the best players in the history of Major League Baseball on Wednesday afternoon.
    Ian Miller OutKick, FOXNews.com, 7 May 2026
Adjective
  • September 23 – October 22 A practical step helps steady everything today.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 5 May 2026
  • My experience working with local governments, workers, educators, businesses and community leaders has reinforced the importance of practical solutions that deliver real results.
    Linh Tat, Oc Register, 4 May 2026
Adjective
  • These aren’t just any Airstreams, but ones that have been outfitted to include amenities like a little kitchenette for your morning coffee, a small couch, and a proper shower and restroom.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 May 2026
  • Christensen disclosed his relationship with school psychology professor Bryn Harris to the university through the proper channels in late 2025, according to CU’s vice president of communications, Michele Ames.
    Elizabeth Hernandez, Denver Post, 7 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Applicable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/applicable. Accessed 9 May. 2026.

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