Apropos

Adjective

Definition: Fitting or appropriate to the situation; relevant.

Synonyms: Relevant, Pertinent, Applicable

Antonyms: Irrelevant, Inappropriate

Examples:
  • His comments were apropos to the topic discussed.
  • She made an apropos observation during the meeting.
Mnemonics:
  • Apropos can be remembered as "A PROPosal" where the proposal is relevant to the situation.

Etymology:

Origin:

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:

Idiom:

"Apropos of nothing"

Explanation:

This phrase is used to introduce a remark or comment that seems unrelated or unexpected in the current context.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

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.

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