Relevance

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'relevance' is correct and commonly used in written English.
It refers to the state of being closely connected or appropriate to the matter at hand. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Example: The relevance of this research study to the current market trends cannot be overstated. It provides valuable insights into consumer behavior and purchasing patterns. In this example, 'relevance' is used to describe the importance and significance of the research study in relation to the current market trends.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

On the surface, this might seem as if it has absolutely zero relevance to the average American, who is more worried about whether he's going to outlive his nest egg than whether he'll leave a "legacy" for his children.

The Guardian - Money

McDonald's reinvention of the Hamburglar was seemingly meant as a play for refreshed cultural relevance, but deeply mixed reactions to the new beef thief raise the prospect that the corporation has miscalculated.

The Guardian - Business

With its clean prose, timeless political relevance, and emotional charge, the play was probably one of the few texts capable of engaging the sceptical Scot's interest.

The Guardian - Film

Related: The real-life triumphs of the gay communist behind hit movie Pride Gethin Roberts, played by Andrew Scott in the film, remarked of the importance and relevance of the cause.

The Guardian - Film

With an argument always raging about the relevance of this super-luxe area of fashion – where a made-to-order dress can cost about £100,000 – its territory is being encroached upon by the resort collections, the cheaper and more commercial side of ready-to-wear.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In February, he suggested a slate of works readers could vote for to ensure the Hugos had relevance outside "rarefied, insular halls of 21st-century Worldcon 'fandom'".

The Guardian - Opinion

These are primarily hacks who clawed their way on stage at some point and are now biding their time in minor-media purgatory with the hope that they'll be able to fake-controversy themselves into relevance once more.

The Guardian - Opinion

Athletic began the day a point behind Deportivo, giving this clash added relevance in the race for European places next season.

The Guardian - Sport

Already one spokesperson for the education department has sought to rule out change on typical grounds: the imagined "relevance" to the world as they see it.

The Guardian - Opinion

Journalists don't only 'question' the relevance of an intervention by an NGO, but they also provide an opportunity to communities to understand and be informed about what has been provided as an intervention".

The Guardian

I added that it was particularly important to challenge the relevance of "instrumental arguments" about funding; even more so to insist on the "intrinsic importance of values as a key justification" for arts support.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "relevance" to highlight why something matters within a particular framework.

Common error

Avoid claiming something is "relevant" without providing a clear explanation of its importance or connection to the topic. Always substantiate claims of "relevance" with specific examples or reasoning.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "relevance" is that of a noun. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it denotes the state or quality of being directly related to something. It can act as the subject or object of a sentence, signifying its importance in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

31%

Science

31%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "relevance" functions as a noun denoting the state of being connected or appropriate. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Scientific contexts. It emphasizes the connection between information and a specific topic, making it crucial for clear communication. Common errors include overstating "relevance" without providing clear justification. For alternative phrasing, "pertinence", "applicability", and "significance" serve as good substitutes depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Pertinence

Focuses specifically on the direct relation to the matter at hand.

Applicability

Emphasizes the capability of being applied to a specific situation or context.

Significance

Highlights the importance and consequence of something.

Bearing

Indicates a direct influence or connection to the topic.

Importance

Stresses the value and necessity of considering something.

Materiality

Highlights the substantial importance or consequence.

Relationship

Focuses on the connection or association with the subject matter.

Appropriateness

Emphasizes the suitability for a particular purpose or situation.

Germane

Highlights how closely something relates to the issue at hand.

Connectedness

Underscores the degree of association or linking.

FAQs

How to use "relevance" in a sentence?

You can use "relevance" to indicate how closely something is connected or appropriate to a particular matter. For example, "The "relevance" of this study to current environmental concerns is significant."

What is the difference between "relevance" and "importance"?

"Relevance" refers to the degree to which something is related or applicable to a particular matter, while "importance" refers to its significance or value. Something can be "relevant" without being particularly important, and vice versa.

What can I say instead of "relevance"?

Alternatives to "relevance" include "pertinence", "applicability", or "significance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Why is "relevance" important in communication?

"Relevance" ensures that the information being conveyed is directly related to the topic at hand, making it easier for the audience to understand and engage with the message. Without "relevance", communication can become confusing or ineffective.