# applicable

/ˈæpɫəkəbəɫ/ (US) · /ɐplˈɪkəbəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/applicable
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

relevant or useful for a particular situation. You use this to say that a rule, law, or idea fits the specific thing you are talking about.

For teachers: relevant or appropriate to a specific situation or person. Often used in legal, administrative, or technical contexts to indicate that a provision or rule has a valid connection to the case at hand.

## Examples

- This rule is only applicable to new employees.
- Please fill out the entire form and write 'N/A' in any sections that are not applicable to you.
- The court must first determine whether the local statutes are applicable to a maritime dispute occurring outside of territorial waters before proceeding with the trial.

## Pitfalls

- Not "This law is applicable for everyone." but "This law is applicable to everyone." — The adjective 'applicable' typically takes the preposition 'to' rather than 'for' when indicating the target group or situation.

## Usage notes

- Commonly followed by the preposition 'to'. Often used in the negative form 'not applicable' or abbreviated as 'N/A' on official documents.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.