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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 ruling, applicable in Sacramento, came after a lawsuit from American Civil Liberties Union of Northern and Southern California and the United Farm Workers, who alleged the enforcement operation in Kern County violated constitutional rights. Mathew Miranda, Sacbee.com, 18 July 2025 He got rid of the qualified experts and replaced them with vaccine skeptics, conspiracy theorists, and scientists with little applicable experience. Jesse Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 July 2025 In its 16-page filing, the DOJ emphasized that plea agreements are interpreted like contracts and must be narrowly construed unless expressly made applicable to multiple jurisdictions. Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 14 July 2025 Educate employees on what constitutes discrimination and harassment under applicable federal and state laws. Elissa Rossi, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for applicable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for applicable
Adjective
  • That’s where the distinction between applied and contextual AI becomes critical.
    ByTheodore Krantz Jr, Forbes.com, 25 June 2025
  • At the time, most basic and applied research was done by the military.
    Paul Bierman, The Conversation, 15 May 2025
Adjective
  • These tools could: Automatically generate product images and video ads Fill in missing data for third-party listings Rewrite product titles, bullet points and descriptions to be more relevant Now, with Starfish, Amazon wants to scale that effort across millions of listings.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 20 July 2025
  • Its digital footprint is eclipsed by People Style, which commands the #1 position of most relevant US fashion publications with 195,887,577 site visits according to a Muck Rack ranking, compared to Vogue’s anemic by comparison #6 spot with 18,599,319 site visits.
    Lilian Raji, Forbes.com, 19 July 2025
Adjective
  • Bad guests consider every horizontal surface to be an appropriate trash receptacle.
    Dev Patnaik, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
  • In theory, the maps enable homeowners, businesses and local officials to understand their flood risk and take appropriate steps to prepare and mitigate potential losses.
    Jeremy Porter, CBS News, 14 July 2025
Adjective
  • Its ability to predict and adapt is one of the most useful aspects of agentic AI.
    Prashanthi Kolluru, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025
  • This moveable feast of electricity could be useful in a wide range of industries.
    Andrew Moseman, IEEE Spectrum, 24 July 2025
Adjective
  • This content is not, nor is intended to be, trading or investment advice or a recommendation that any investment product or strategy is suitable for any person.
    JJ Kinahan, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025
  • Responses are for informational purposes only and individuals should consider whether any general recommendation in these responses are suitable for their particular circumstances based on investment objectives, financial situation and needs.
    Steve Hruby, The Enquirer, 15 July 2025
Adjective
  • Bishop sleeves are loose fitting down the arm and gathered at the wrist, whereas bell sleeves are fitted down most of the arm but open into a large bell shape.
    BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 18 July 2025
  • As is fitting for an ‘80s throwback, the Electric Blue Razz soda is only available in full sugar, as in there’s no diet version of this brilliantly-hued drink.
    Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 18 July 2025
Adjective
  • Cable remains a popular and practical internet solution for many households, especially where fiber isn't yet available.
    Roxanne Downer, USA Today, 26 July 2025
  • Gillis and Trachtenberg explained how for the first time in the Predator movies, the face of the creature wasn’t practical, always a very challenging task, because nuanced emotional expressions were called for in which the alien was the hero.
    Borys Kit, HollywoodReporter, 26 July 2025
Adjective
  • The trooper found no proper registration for the vehicle.
    Mandy Taheri, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 July 2025
  • Women being dismissed by their healthcare providers is another culprit, says Tran, and without proper exams and X-rays, the disease goes undetected.
    Marnie Goodfriend, Flow Space, 25 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Applicable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/applicable. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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