applicable
Americanadjective
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of applicable
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
Explanation
If something's applicable, it matters in a certain case: it's relevant. If we're going to have rules, shouldn't they be applicable to everyone? Is the idea that there's only one correct way to pronounce a word applicable when it comes to applicable? There's some disagreement about this among the experts, but you'll hear people pronounce applicable two ways: with emphasis on “app” or with emphasis on “plic.” So take your pick and use this word confidently wherever it's applicable.
Vocabulary lists containing applicable
Power Suffix: -able
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-able
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Ten Words from The New York Times - Apr. 24, 2013
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The deal includes language that the use of the models will be consistent with civil liberties, constitutional rights and applicable law, the source said.
From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026
Some hedge-fund managers say they couldn’t recall when the short-swing profit rule had last been invoked, even indicating uncertainty over how the mechanics of any disgorgement of applicable profits would be administered.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026
Meta said Monday that "the transaction complied fully with applicable law", and "we anticipate an appropriate resolution".
From Barron's • Apr. 28, 2026
It released an 18-page document, external, which stated shoes could not be used unless they were available to "any athletes participating in applicable competitions".
From BBC • Apr. 27, 2026
“You won’t believe how much of what we’ll be talking about this year is applicable to space travel,” Mr. Jefferies says while passing out the permission forms.
From "Boy21" by Matthew Quick
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
