Synonym Chooser

How is the word relevant different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of relevant are applicable, apposite, apropos, germane, material, and pertinent. While all these words mean "relating to or bearing upon the matter in hand," relevant implies a traceable, significant, logical connection.

found material relevant to her case

When is it sensible to use applicable instead of relevant?

While in some cases nearly identical to relevant, 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 can apposite be used instead of relevant?

The meanings of apposite and relevant largely overlap; however, apposite suggests a felicitous relevance.

add an apposite quotation to the definition

Where would apropos be a reasonable alternative to relevant?

The synonyms apropos and relevant are sometimes interchangeable, but apropos suggests being both relevant and opportune.

the quip was apropos

When might germane be a better fit than relevant?

The words germane and relevant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, germane may additionally imply a fitness for or appropriateness to the situation or occasion.

a point not germane to the discussion

When could material be used to replace relevant?

The words material and relevant can be used in similar contexts, but material implies so close a relationship that it cannot be dispensed with without serious alteration of the case.

facts material to the investigation

In what contexts can pertinent take the place of relevant?

Although the words pertinent and relevant have much in common, pertinent stresses a clear and decisive relevance.

a pertinent observation

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 relevant Below, during a recent conversation with THR, Craig, who happens to be Sally Field’s middle son, also discusses Clown’s relevant theme of generational divide, as well as the tug of war between practical effects and visual effects. Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 8 May 2025 In this relevant and liberating Pixar film from 2022, Mei seems like every other pre-teen on the surface. Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Parents, 8 May 2025 Everything seems possible now, so the absurd seems totally relevant. Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 8 May 2025 Davidson’s honest, no-filter approach and die-hard love for Axe made this partnership culturally relevant between the two entities. Cassell Ferere, Forbes.com, 27 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for relevant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for relevant
Adjective
  • Broadcasters who distribute over-air content are accustomed to a one-size-fits-all approach for television, and this uniformity is not applicable with second screens.
    Vinayak S, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025
  • By identifying areas of need for productions, the goal is to then re-train people with applicable experience to transition their skillset into the entertainment industry.
    Zoe Hewitt, Variety, 14 May 2025
Adjective
  • Still, Brock Akil uses those disagreements and misunderstandings to explore pertinent topics.
    Ben Travers, IndieWire, 8 May 2025
  • The cleaner look, with additional pertinent information on screen at a glance, should help simplify the decision-making process.
    David Bloom, Forbes.com, 7 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Relevant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/relevant. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on relevant

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