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 This is especially relevant for those rethinking strategic asset allocation. Paul Malloy, Fortune, 4 Oct. 2025 Whether or not The Bitch of Buchenwald did what is reenacted on the show isn’t relevant, because her activities are placed in the context of a comic book that exaggerates history to make a point — just like Monster does. Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 4 Oct. 2025 But staying relevant in the digital landscape, especially as AI enters the mix, is a must. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, jsonline.com, 3 Oct. 2025 Not a lot lost in terms of relevant track conditions but a lot lost in terms of getting your eye in on the circuit. Saajan Jogia, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for relevant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for relevant
Adjective
  • But the study’s findings may not be applicable to all adults age 65 and older since the researchers focused their efforts in Canada, where patients have access to universal health care.
    Gina Park, CNN Money, 5 Oct. 2025
  • Tickets are $12, plus applicable taxes and fees.
    Marcus Smith, Sacbee.com, 3 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Last week, Syracuse decided to halt admissions for 20 majors for the next academic year while the pertinent programs undergo an internal academic review.
    Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 6 Oct. 2025
  • In those circumstances, the words from Mason Mount, scorer of the opening goal with a brilliant finish, were pertinent.
    Laurie Whitwell, New York Times, 5 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Relevant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/relevant. Accessed 9 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on relevant

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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