Applicable

Definition

Applicable is an adjective that describes something relevant, suitable, or appropriate for a particular purpose or situation. It is used to indicate that a rule, condition, or information can be applied or is relevant to a specific context.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈæplɪkəbl/
• Respelling: AP-li-kuh-buhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈplɪkəbl/
• Respelling: uh-PLIK-uh-buhl

The pronunciation of "applicable" varies slightly between American and British English, with differences in syllable emphasis.

Etymology

The word "applicable" originates from the Medieval Latin term "applicabilis," meaning "that can be applied." This derives from the Latin "applicare," meaning "to attach" or "to apply." The word entered English in the 16th century with the meaning of being relevant or appropriate for a situation.

Derivatives

• Applicability (noun)
• Applicably (adverb)
• Apply (verb)
• Applied (adjective)
• Application (noun)

Synonyms

• Relevant
• Suitable
• Appropriate

Antonyms

• Irrelevant
• Inappropriate
• Unrelated

Usage

The term "applicable" is frequently used in legal, educational, and practical contexts to describe rules, principles, or facts that are relevant to a specific case or situation. For example, "The law is not applicable in this instance," or "The instructions are only applicable to experienced users." It is used to indicate relevance and suitability.

Related Terms

• Application: The act of putting something to use or relevance in a particular situation.
• Relevance: The quality of being directly related to a matter or situation.
• Suitability: The quality of being appropriate or fitting for a purpose.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Relevant or appropriate for a particular situation: Refers to something that can be practically or logically applied to a specific case or scenario.
  • Example: "The safety regulations are applicable to all employees."
• Capable of being applied or used: Describes something that is fit or suitable to be put into practice or considered in a given context.
  • Example: "This principle is applicable across different industries."