Apropos
Adjective
Definition: Fitting or appropriate to the situation; relevant.
Synonyms: Relevant, Pertinent, Applicable
Antonyms: Irrelevant, Inappropriate
- His comments were apropos to the topic discussed.
- She made an apropos observation during the meeting.
- Apropos can be remembered as "A PROPosal" where the proposal is relevant to the situation.
Etymology:
Apropos is derived from the French phrase "à propos" which literally means "to the purpose". It entered the English language in the late 17th century.
Historical Usage:Initially used as a preposition meaning "in respect to" or "with reference to", it later evolved to be used as an adjective meaning "relevant" or "appropriate".
Related Idioms:
"Apropos of nothing"
Explanation:This phrase is used to introduce a remark or comment that seems unrelated or unexpected in the current context.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "apropos" with "appropriate" or "suitable".
Explanation:While "apropos" can mean "relevant" or "appropriate", it is not an exact synonym for these words. "Apropos" specifically focuses on the relevance of something to a particular situation or topic.