🇬🇧 Applicable meaning: English Vocabulary Flash Card

"Applicable" means that something fits a situation or person and actually matters to it. If a rule, idea, or piece of information is applicable, it can be used there and it makes sense there. If it doesn’t fit or doesn’t matter, then it’s not applicable.

The warning "Objects in mirror are closer than they appear" was especially applicable to my little brother sneaking up with a water balloon.

Mom said the rule “One dessert only” was especially applicable to me after I tried to adopt a second slice of cake.

The sign "Beware of dog" was not applicable to our chihuahua, who can only scare people with excessive cuteness.

The teacher said the excuse “I was kidnapped by aliens” was not applicable to our math homework situation.

The suggestion "Take a deep breath" was very applicable when my science project started to smoke and then burped glitter.

Rain drummed. A mother held two coats for her shivering son. The bright yellow hood was clearly applicable to the storm, applicable to the child's small hands, applicable to the torn zipper, applicable to puddles. The thin sweater was not applicable. She zipped the yellow hood, wiped his wet hair, and he smiled — warm and safe.

This word is at the C1 level, which means it’s part of advanced English. It’s used in sophisticated conversations, professional settings, and academic discussions. Words at this level help you express yourself fluently and precisely in nuanced situations.

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