germane
Say it: jer-MAYN /dʒɝˈmeɪn/ · adjective
What “germane” means
Directly relevant to what is being discussed.
More precisely: Relevant to the subject being discussed.
Example: “His comments about the old logo weren't germane to the pricing decision.”
When to use it
For a point that bears directly on the current issue; it sounds formal, especially in meetings, debates or essays.
Similar words
relevant, pertinent, applicable
Where it comes from
From Latin germanus, "of the same parents."
Quick check
While choosing a wheelchair ramp, someone asks whether its slope is safe for users. That question is…
germane or tangential?
Show the answer
germane
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