Another Word for Relevant: 8 Synonyms with Examples
“Relevant” means closely connected to the matter in hand. The alternatives vary in how direct the connection is.
As an adjective: closely connected or appropriate to the matter
- pertinent
- applicable
- related
- appropriate
- germane
- apposite
- to the point
- significant
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How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- pertinent
- Formal; directly relevant to the question at hand.
- applicable
- Means it applies to a particular case or person, as with rules.
- related
- Weaker: connected, but not necessarily useful to the point.
- germane
- Formal and a little literary; often used in the negative.
- to the point
- Informal; relevant and concise.
Example sentences
- pertinent: She asked several pertinent questions about the budget.
- applicable: These rules are applicable to all members of staff.
- related: The article covers fitness and related topics.
- germane: His comments were not germane to the discussion.
- to the point: Keep your answers short and to the point.
Opposite of relevant
- irrelevant
- unrelated
- inapplicable
- immaterial
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “relevant”?
The most useful alternatives are “pertinent”, “applicable”, “related”, “appropriate”, “germane”. For the main sense (closely connected or appropriate to the matter), “pertinent” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “pertinent” and “applicable”?
pertinent: Formal; directly relevant to the question at hand. applicable: Means it applies to a particular case or person, as with rules.
What is the opposite of “relevant”?
Common antonyms are “irrelevant”, “unrelated”, “inapplicable”, “immaterial”.