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, fit, befitting, apt, appropriate, relevant, relative, material, germane, apposite

applicable

/ əˈplɪkə-, ˈæplɪkəbəl /

adjective

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

Other Word Forms

• applicability noun
• applicableness noun
• applicably adverb
• nonapplicable adjective
• nonapplicableness noun
• unapplicable adjective
• unapplicableness noun
• unapplicably 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

The act eliminated the subsidy cliff by limiting the premiums for families at 400% or above to 8.5% of applicable income.

From Los Angeles Times

But not all of these are applicable to children, and using the ones which are, at scale, will end up criminalising more children.

From BBC

A Transport Scotland spokesperson said: "Shipbuilding is a competitive global market and any direct award of a public contract must comply with applicable procurement and subsidy control rules and be capable of withstanding legal challenge."

From BBC

Cookies, breads, pancakes, biscuit dough — whatever has made the cut — get formed and, if applicable, baked and cooled.

From Salon

Companies must provide evidence that flaring is necessary, and, when approving permits, the agency follows all applicable rules, he said.

From Salon

Related Words

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