Synonyms of relevant

relevant

adjective

ˈre-lə-vənt 

as in applicable

having to do with the matter at hand

make sure your comments during the interview are short and relevant

Synonyms & Similar Words

• applicable
• pertinent
• important
• appropriate
• pointed
• relative
• meaningful
• useful
• to the point
• germane
• suitable
• apposite
• material
• apropos
• fitting
• significant
• apt
• allowable
• admissible
• sensible
• fit

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• irrelevant
• inapplicable
• immaterial
• extraneous
• pointless
• unimportant
• trivial
• little
• minor
• insignificant
• impertinent
• negligible
• frivolous
• inapposite
• inconsequential
• useless
• meaningless
• slight
• trifling
• irrelative
• inappropriate
• unsuitable
• purposeless
• senseless
• inadmissible
• inapt

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

Recent Examples of relevant

One of my favorite movies of all time is California Suite, a gem of a Neil Simon film with witty dialogue, an incredible cast, and themes that are as relevant as ever. —Tamim Alnuweiri, InStyle, 12 Jan. 2026

Taylor [Sheridan] has a beautiful way of writing things that are relevant without touching too much into it, but in a way that leaves a person thinking. —Jackie Strause, HollywoodReporter, 12 Jan. 2026

Of course, Ryan’s previous and more relevant job is omitted. —Michael Cunningham, AJC.com, 12 Jan. 2026

This review will include gathering information from all relevant parties and assessing the situation thoroughly and responsibly. —Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 11 Jan. 2026