applicable

[ ap-li-kuh-buhl, uh-plik-uh- ]

adjective

1. applying or capable of being applied; usable:

   an applicable rule;

   a solution that is applicable to the problem.

2. appropriate or relevant; apropos; pertinent.

   Synonyms: suitable, meet, proper, fitting, befitting, apt, appropriate, relevant, relative, material, germane, apposite, fit

applicable

/ əˈplɪkə-; ˈæplɪkəbəl /

adjective

1. being appropriate or relevant; able to be applied; fitting

Derived Forms

• ˌapplicaˈbility, noun
• ˈapplicably, adverb

Other Words From

• ap·pli·ca·bil·i·ty [uh, -plik-, uh, -, bil, -i-tee], ap·pli·ca·ble·ness noun
• ap·pli·ca·bly adverb
• non·ap·pli·ca·ble adjective
• non·ap·pli·ca·ble·ness noun
• un·ap·pli·ca·ble adjective
• un·ap·pli·ca·ble·ness noun
• un·ap·pli·ca·bly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of applicable¹

First recorded in 1400–50; from Latin applic(āre) “to apply ” + -able, or from Middle French applicable, Medieval Latin applicābilis; replacing late Middle English appliable

Example Sentences

Most of Ury’s work before “The Later Daters” was with Gen Z and millennial singles, but she found that the lessons were applicable to older generations.

From Los Angeles Times

This means that cell density is a broadly applicable tool for guiding both engineered and naturally occurring cells to build a vast array of structures, tissues, and organs.

From Science Daily

At the same time, the city must comply with a valid warrant issued by a federal or state judge, or any other applicable order.

From Los Angeles Times

Still, he read the screenplay with “extreme skepticism. I couldn’t imagine my aesthetic voice could be so applicable to this genre and tone and scale, even though I was a huge fan.”

From Los Angeles Times

The study contributes to a growing body of knowledge on the unintended consequences of environmental policies and offers insights applicable beyond plastic bag usage, Che said.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• germane
• pertinent
• relevant
• suitable
• suited
• useful