applicable

American  

[ap-li-kuh-buhl, uh-plik-uh-] / ˈæp lɪ kə bəl, əˈplɪk ə- /

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

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applicable British  

/ əˈplɪkə-, ˈæplɪkəbəl /

adjective

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

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Other Word Forms

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

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.

Example Sentences

The summonses were issued "as part of the application of administrative sanctions in accordance with the applicable provisions", the minister added.

From Barron's • Mar. 31, 2026

“Secretary Hegseth and the Department of War remain unwavering in their commitment to the highest standards of ethics and strict adherence to all applicable laws and regulations,” he wrote.

From Salon • Mar. 31, 2026

The themes of the debasement trade, the store of value, central banks’ accumulation and the diversification of reserves in the aftermath of the freezing of Russian assets in 2022 are all still applicable, he said.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 27, 2026

The Stanford School of Medicine prohibits “unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law,” a spokeswoman said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

Sean’s policy is to flout all applicable rules and regulations. arctic.

From "Woe Is I" by Patricia T. O'Conner

Related Words

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