VocabDictionary

applicable

/ˈæp.lɪ.kə.bəl/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Capable of being applied; relevant or appropriate to a particular situation, person, or thing.

Example Sentences:
  • The new tax laws are only applicable to individuals earning over a certain threshold.
  • Please indicate which sections of the application form are not applicable to your current status by writing N/A.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “applicable”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Late Latin 'applicabilis', which comes from the Latin verb 'applicare', meaning 'to join to' or 'to attach'. This is formed from the prefix 'ad-' (to) and 'plicare' (to fold). In English, the term evolved from the physical sense of attaching something to the abstract sense of a rule or condition being relevant to a specific context.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of it as 'apply-able'—if a rule or law can be applied to your situation, it is applicable.

Frequently Asked Questions About “applicable

1. What is the meaning of “applicable” in English?

In English, applicable (adjective) is defined as: “Capable of being applied; relevant or appropriate to a particular situation, person, or thing.”.

2. How do you use “applicable” in a sentence?

The new tax laws are only applicable to individuals earning over a certain threshold.

3. What are English synonyms of “applicable”?

Common synonyms include:relevant,pertinent,apposite,germane,suitable

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “applicable”?

Derived from the Late Latin 'applicabilis', which comes from the Latin verb 'applicare', meaning 'to join to' or 'to attach'. This is formed from the prefix 'ad-' (to) and 'plicare' (to fold). In English, the term evolved from the physical sense of attaching something to the abstract sense of a rule or condition being relevant to a specific context.