B2 noun Neutral

relevant

/ˈrel.ə.vənt/

Something that is closely connected or appropriate to the matter at hand or the subject being discussed. In an academic or professional context, it refers to information or evidence that directly supports a specific argument or task.

Examples

3 of 5
1

Is this information relevant to our travel plans?

Is this information applicable to our travel arrangements?

2

The candidate must possess at least five years of relevant experience in the legal field.

The applicant needs five years of related work experience in law.

3

That's not even relevant, so stop changing the subject.

That doesn't matter right now, so stay on topic.

Word Family

Noun
relevance
Adverb
relevantly
Adjective
relevant
Related
irrelevance
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Memory Tip

Think of the 'Rel' in Relevant and Related. If something is Relevant, it is Related to the matter at hand.

Quick Quiz

The evidence provided was not _____ to the case, so the judge dismissed it.

Correct!

The correct answer is: relevant

Examples

1

Is this information relevant to our travel plans?

everyday

Is this information applicable to our travel arrangements?

2

The candidate must possess at least five years of relevant experience in the legal field.

formal

The applicant needs five years of related work experience in law.

3

That's not even relevant, so stop changing the subject.

informal

That doesn't matter right now, so stay on topic.

4

Students are encouraged to cite only relevant sources that strengthen their thesis statement.

academic

Students should use only pertinent references that support their main argument.

5

We need to analyze all relevant data before we finalize the quarterly budget.

business

We must examine all significant data before finishing the budget.

Word Family

Noun
relevance
Adverb
relevantly
Adjective
relevant
Related
irrelevance

Common Collocations

relevant information pertinent data or facts
relevant experience related work history
highly relevant extremely applicable
relevant to the topic connected to the subject
relevant facts applicable truths or details

Common Phrases

relevant to the discussion

directly related to what is being talked about

all relevant parties

everyone who is involved or affected

stay relevant

remain useful or current in a changing environment

Often Confused With

relevant vs relative

Relative refers to a family member or a comparison between things, while relevant refers to a logical connection to a topic.

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Usage Notes

Relevant is almost always followed by the preposition 'to'. It is frequently used in academic writing to distinguish between essential information and 'filler' content.

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Common Mistakes

A common error is using 'relevant with' instead of the correct 'relevant to'.

💡

Memory Tip

Think of the 'Rel' in Relevant and Related. If something is Relevant, it is Related to the matter at hand.

📖

Word Origin

Derived from the Medieval Latin 'relevantem', meaning 'lifting up' or 'assisting', which later evolved to mean 'legally pertinent'.

Grammar Patterns

Adjective + to + [noun/pronoun] Used before a noun (e.g., relevant skills) Used after a linking verb (e.g., That is not relevant)
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Cultural Context

In the modern digital age, 'staying relevant' is a common cultural phrase referring to the need for workers and brands to update their skills and technology to avoid becoming obsolete.

Quick Quiz

The evidence provided was not _____ to the case, so the judge dismissed it.

Correct!

The correct answer is: relevant

Related Words

overall

B2

Describing the total or general nature of something when all parts or factors are considered together. It refers to the whole of a situation rather than specific details or individual components.

overlap

B2

To cover part of the same area of space or time as something else, or to have some common qualities or features. It describes situations where two things occupy the same physical space partially or where two events happen simultaneously for a period.

overseas

B2

Relating to, coming from, or situated in a country across the sea or ocean. It is used to describe international contexts, particularly travel, trade, or living arrangements in a foreign land.

panel

B2

A panel is a small group of people brought together to discuss a specific topic, provide expert advice, or make decisions. It can also refer to a distinct, flat, and often rectangular section of a larger surface, such as a wall, door, or control board.

parameter

B2

A parameter is a limit or boundary that defines the scope of a particular process, system, or activity. In technical or mathematical contexts, it refers to a measurable factor that sets the conditions of an operation.

passive

B2

Describing someone who allows things to happen or accepts what others do without resistance or participation. It is also used in grammar to describe a sentence structure where the subject is the recipient of the action rather than the performer.

persist

B2

To continue firmly in an opinion or a course of action despite difficulty, opposition, or failure. It also refers to a state or condition that continues to exist or endure over a prolonged period.

philosophy

B2

Philosophy is the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence, especially when considered as an academic discipline. It also refers to a specific set of beliefs, values, or principles that guide the behavior and outlook of an individual or an organization.

portion

B2

A portion is a part of a whole that has been divided or allocated to a specific person or purpose. It is most commonly used to describe a serving of food or a specific share of a larger amount, such as money or time.

pose

B2

To present or constitute a problem, danger, or challenge that needs to be addressed. It also refers to the physical act of assuming a specific position for a photograph, painting, or artistic work.

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