applicable
gb/ˈæplɪkəbəl/ us/ˈæplɪkəbəl/
B2
English
~ 2400
Senses
0 senses
adjective
formal
B2
property
1
Relevant or suitable to a case
Right or suitable for a certain situation or use.
Usage pattern:
[something] is applicable to [something/someone]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'applicable' with 'available'. 'Applicable' means suitable or relevant, not simply existing or ready to use.
Synonyms
relevant (Common and neutral; focuses on direct connection to the matter at hand.)
|
pertinent (Slightly more formal; implies strong relevance and appropriateness.)
Antonyms
irrelevant (Means having no connection to the matter at hand.)
|
inapplicable (Specifically means not suitable or not able to be applied in the situation.)
Collocations
applicable law
|applicable rules
|applicable regulations
|terms applicable
|not applicable
Themes
law
|business
|daily life
|core_vocabulary
|communication
Examples
- These safety guidelines are applicable to all factory workers.
- The new tax rules are not applicable to small businesses.
- Only certain parts of the contract are applicable in this case.
- This discount is applicable only on weekdays.
- The regulation is applicable worldwide.
Learner examples
- This rule is applicable to you.
- The law is not applicable here.
- That idea is applicable in many cases.
- The offer is applicable today only.
- The rule is applicable to all students.
Grammar
Dictionary form
applicable
IPA
GB/ˈæplɪkəbəl/
US/ˈæplɪkəbəl/
Syllables & stress
ap - plic - able (3 syllables)
Stress on 1st syllable (ap)
Word forms
Adjective
- Base: applicable
Word family
Core family
Related words
applicability
noun
Negative and opposite forms
inapplicable
adjective
Expressions
not applicable
1/nˈɑt ˈæplɪkəbəl/
fixed phrase
Not relevant or suitable here
Used to say that something does not apply to the situation being discussed.
Examples
- Please write 'N/A' if the question is not applicable to you.
- The refund policy is not applicable for clearance items.