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 Most relevant governmental agencies have avoided looking into the turbines’ impact in a meaningful way. Andrew R. Chow, Time, 13 Aug. 2025 Similarly, governments can establish bilateral employment partnerships to fast-track visas or permanent residency status for workers from a specific country with relevant skills. Alexander Kustov, Foreign Affairs, 12 Aug. 2025 Candidates or their representatives can find more details and submit their relevant qualifications by clicking on this link. Variety Staff, Variety, 12 Aug. 2025 The wispy, powdery blush that evolved from 2023’s Barbie pink remains relevant for fall. Cortne Bonilla, Vogue, 12 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for relevant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for relevant
Adjective
  • Hims & Hers has said consumers may still be able to access personalized doses through its site if clinically applicable.
    Ashley Capoot, CNBC, 4 Aug. 2025
  • These five fundamental savings strategies are applicable to any income-level or age group, and essential for long-term financial stability.
    True Tamplin, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • This will be especially pertinent in the upcoming season, with plans being formed for Kamara and club-record signing Amadou Onana to be paired together, with Tielemans constructing attacks from a more advanced role.
    Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 12 Aug. 2025
  • This is especially pertinent given that it has been reported the U.S. is proposing swapping land Moscow partially occupies for peace, which Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected.
    Brendan Cole, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Relevant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/relevant. Accessed 19 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on relevant

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