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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 National Park Service is directed to use applicable authorities to seek to enter into agreements with others, and the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation in particular, to enhance public services and promote management efficiencies. Liz Tracey, JSTOR Daily, 24 June 2025 None of the firm's attorneys have been accused of violating any applicable rules of professional conduct. Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 24 June 2025 Travelers also need to bring a valid passport, documents that prove residence (such as a driver’s license with a current address, mortgage statement, rental payment statement, or utility bill), a permanent resident card (if applicable), and a same-day boarding pass. Bailey Berg, AFAR Media, 18 June 2025 Holcomb objected, saying it hasn't been established that that definition is applicable to this case. Nadine El-Bawab, ABC News, 18 June 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
  • Uncomfortable moments, such as when Luke Armstrong’s record £500,000 transfer from Harrogate Town collapsed due to a failure to submit the relevant paperwork in time, have previously been totally ignored.
    Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 27 June 2025
  • This fluency fosters trust and alignment across the organization and ensures that AI projects are not just technically sound but strategically relevant.
    Chaitanya Laxminarayana, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025
Adjective
  • These ribbons can be steamed, boiled, or even served raw with an appropriate sauce.
    BestReviews, Mercury News, 4 July 2025
  • But through that time, the boy has received appropriate care.
    Eduardo Cuevas, USA Today, 4 July 2025
Adjective
  • These are much more useful for decks and outdoor cleaning, because their strength and efficiency can actually lead to interior damage.
    Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 30 June 2025
  • For instance, a folding utility cart with wheels might be the best option for some, while others may find an electric utility cart more useful.
    BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 30 June 2025
Adjective
  • Moist soil is important; however, areas where moisture accumulates during the winter are not suitable as this will make the tubers rot.
    Lauren David, Southern Living, 6 July 2025
  • Each piece has a sturdy coated iron frame that’s rust-resistant and suitable for year-round outdoor exposure, while the chairs are covered in a quick-drying breathable fabric that’s fade- and UV-resistant.
    Maggie Horton, People.com, 5 July 2025
Adjective
  • Leadership in 2025 and beyond requires fitting humans, who supply feelings and ethics, together with technology that enhances the speed, reach, and uniformity of processes.
    Mark Minevich, Fortune, 25 June 2025
  • The key for Niang, who enters a contract year during an era where elite shooting is quite invaluable, will be fitting into the team defense.
    Zach Harper, New York Times, 24 June 2025
Adjective
  • Sierra Designs recently updated their award-winning Mobile Mummy, a practical and comfortable wearable sleeping bag originally released in 2014.
    Wendy Altschuler, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • Today’s Canadian nationalism, by contrast, arises from darker and more practical concerns.
    Stephen Marche, The Atlantic, 1 July 2025
Adjective
  • Eggs themselves are not a source of collagen—but the egg white specifically contains proline and glycine, two essential amino acids for proper collagen production.
    Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 1 July 2025
  • The potential disasters of treating art like traditional investments far outweigh the cost of proper planning.
    Matthew F. Erskine, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Applicable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/applicable. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on applicable

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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