germane

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "germane" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an idea, comment, or action that is relevant to the topic being discussed. For example, "The presenter made germane observations about the current economic climate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Besides, the avant-garde most germane to Kahlo's development in the twenties is that of German Neue Sachlichkeit (New Objectivity), which mined heightened realism for psychological drama.

The New Yorker

The distribution of the burden of Medicare and Social Security payroll taxes may be germane to an argument about the fairness of America's comprehensive scheme of taxes, but it's not germane to the argument Mr Obama actually made.Admittedly, it's difficult to know how best to treat payroll taxes for the purpose of this kind of debate.

The Economist

When they create things, using science, they increase America's output and contribute to the country's economic growth.So while the age of the Earth is not directly relevant to America's economy, it's useful as an indicator of the country's belief in and study of science, which is germane to any discussion of GDP and growth rates.

The Economist

Every one of these concerns is germane to AIG.AIG has a stockmarket valuation of $190 billion, making it second among financial companies only to Citigroup's $225 billion.

The Economist

Military service below the executive level may be germane to our assessment of a candidate's character, but I find it hard to see anything offensive in questioning whether it necessarily imbues one with exceptional policy judgement.

The Economist

There is no serious question that Ms Davis's comments on the sonogram requirement were germane, but Mr Dewhurst didn't care; he needed her to shut up.

The Economist

Mr Parseghian describes the sale as prudent diversification, which is true, but not necessarily germane.

The Economist

He could have rejected them as not germane to his inquiry; some think he should have done.

The Economist

Lord Hutton's report, when it finally appears, looks unlikely to criticise him for that wording, as it will surely not be thought germane to the circumstances of Mr Kelly's death.

The Economist

The relative quiet came to an end when Hamas guerrillas killed four Israeli soldiers, in revenge for the death of three teenagers in Gaza, and Israel responded by destroying 66 refugee houses in Rafah.From then on, the factions began to see a ceasefire as about as germane to their cause as Mr Bush's "vision" of a Palestinian state.

The Economist

But what we ought to scoff at and mock is not that some take the idea of Hell seriously, even literally, as this thought has been germane to human understanding for millennia and has produced a good amount of humility (notwithstanding its abuses).

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "germane" to add a touch of formality when indicating relevance, especially in academic or professional writing. It elevates the tone compared to simply saying "relevant."

Common error

Avoid using "germane" when the connection is tenuous or unclear. It should only be used when the relevance is direct and easily understood; otherwise, opt for a more general term like "related."

Linguistic Context

The adjective "germane" primarily functions to modify nouns, indicating that they are relevant or pertinent to a specific topic or context. Ludwig confirms that "germane" is used to describe elements that are directly connected and important to the discussion at hand.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

11%

Academia

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "germane" is an adjective used to describe something relevant or pertinent to a particular topic. Ludwig AI confirms the term's proper usage in various contexts. It is most frequently found in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Science, reflecting its formal and precise nature. While "relevant" can serve as a simpler alternative, "germane" adds a level of sophistication to writing. Remember to use "germane" only when the connection is direct and easily understood to avoid misapplication. With its frequent usage and authoritative presence, incorporating "germane" appropriately can enhance the clarity and impact of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

relevant

This term directly implies a connection to the matter at hand, emphasizing its importance in the current context.

pertinent

Similar to relevant, but it often suggests a more direct and decisive relevance to the topic being discussed.

applicable

Indicates that something can be appropriately applied to the current situation or discussion.

apropos

Suggests that something is particularly suitable or fitting for the current situation.

fitting

Implies that something corresponds well or is appropriately suited to the situation.

related

A broad term indicating a connection or association with the topic.

connected

Similar to related, but it can suggest a stronger or more direct link.

material

Indicates that something is important or significant to the matter at hand.

on-topic

Directly implies that something stays within the bounds of the current discussion.

to the point

Suggests that something is directly relevant and avoids unnecessary details.

FAQs

How can I use "germane" in a sentence?

Use "germane" to describe something that is relevant and appropriate to a particular subject or situation. For example, "The lawyer argued that the evidence was not "germane" to the case."

What is a simpler alternative to "germane"?

A simpler alternative to "germane" is "relevant". While "germane" adds a touch of formality, "relevant" is more commonly used in everyday language.

When is it appropriate to use "germane" instead of "relevant"?

Use "germane" in formal writing or speech when you want to emphasize the direct and significant connection to the matter at hand. If you're looking for a casual synonym use "relevant".

What's the difference between "germane" and "tangential"?

"Germane" means relevant and pertinent, while "tangential" means slightly connected or related. So, "germane" is used for direct relevance, and "tangential" is used for indirect or minor relevance.