# Germain

/dʒɝˈmeɪn/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/germain
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

closely connected to the topic you are talking about. You use it to describe information that is relevant and useful for the current situation.

For teachers: relevant to a subject under consideration. Often used in legal or academic contexts to describe evidence or arguments that directly relate to the matter at hand.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The facts are germane with the case" but "The facts are germane to the case" — The adjective germane is followed by the preposition 'to', not 'with'.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows a linking verb like 'be' or 'seem' and is often followed by the preposition 'to'.

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