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 Longer delays can be imposed if permitted by a court, state regulator or other applicable authority. Sarah Agostino, CNBC, 2 July 2026 Then, if applicable, check the exclusion list; many codes do not apply to sale items, new arrivals, or specific collections like the Moab series. Madison Flager, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 July 2026 The specific facts matter, including when the debt was incurred, how the account was used and applicable state law. Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 1 July 2026 Giveaway is subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws. AJC.com, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for applicable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for applicable
Adjective
  • The project is part of Habitat for Humanity's broader effort to expand affordable homeownership opportunities across the metro area while giving students hands-on experience in construction and applied math.
    Justin Adams, CBS News, 1 July 2026
  • Along with theology, that list now includes applied psychology, pharmaceutical sciences and others.
    Collin Binkley, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2026
Adjective
  • Its binding values of labor and community remain relevant, even if today’s Hollywood rarely speaks to them.
    Glenn Whipp, Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2026
  • Each organization will continue to be led by a management team with deep industry experience that will benefit from focused strategic priorities and the ability to pursue opportunities most relevant to their businesses.
    Todd Spangler, Variety, 29 June 2026
Adjective
  • Parton’s Imagination Library mails free, age-appropriate books every month to children from birth to age five.
    Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 3 July 2026
  • Recent policies that State Shield has supported include a Tennessee bill requiring the state board of education to adopt age-appropriate instruction related to communism and a Louisiana resolution encouraging economic ties with Taiwan.
    Max Grinstein, The Washington Examiner, 3 July 2026
Adjective
  • Later in the day, your mind finds a clever solution, a useful contact or a whole new point of view.
    Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 1 July 2026
  • While Mickey Moniak and Freddy Peralta and Kris Bubic are useful pieces to move, these squads don’t really have the rosters to shake up the deadline by embracing a more aggressive sale.
    Tim Britton, New York Times, 1 July 2026
Adjective
  • There is also an abundance of suitable training facilities in the region, which is in the circuit of MLS preseason destinations.
    Ian Nicholas Quillen, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026
  • The modular, and containerized electromagnetic aircraft launch system is capable of deploying drones from almost any suitable location.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 3 July 2026
Adjective
  • What Enterprises Should Do Now For a technology buyer, the practical move is to treat the agent gateway as a diligence checklist rather than a purchase.
    Janakiram MSV, Forbes.com, 6 July 2026
  • As a perpetually on-the-go woman, my chic mom is rotating through a range of practical styles this season.
    Isabel Bekele, InStyle, 6 July 2026
Adjective
  • Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, so wear light loose-fitting, light colored clothing, says Gray.
    Arricca Elin SanSone, Southern Living, 3 July 2026
  • The ceremony, reportedly held at New York's iconic Madison Square Garden, seems like a fitting venue for a musical performance.
    Charlie Carballo, USA Today, 3 July 2026
Adjective
  • The law doesn’t mention NDS, of course, instead directing agencies to coordinate with the director of the Office of Management and Budget to assess digital needs and costs and standardize government websites only to the extent practicable.
    Ashley Belanger, ArsTechnica, 30 June 2026
  • The inmate can choose to decline the offer and be released as soon as possible or practicable.
    Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 25 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Applicable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/applicable. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.

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