Germane

Adjective

Definition: Closely or significantly related; relevant; pertinent to a specific matter, topic, or subject.

Synonyms: Relevant, Pertinent, Applicable

Antonyms: Irrelevant, Unrelated, Extraneous

Examples:
  • His comments were not germane to the discussion.
  • She always brings up points that are germane to the topic at hand.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of the word "germ" and how it relates to something being relevant or closely related.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English (in the sense 'sharing the same parents or ancestors'): from Old French germain, from Latin germanus 'full, own, or genuine.'

Historical Usage:

The term "germane" has been used in English since the 14th century and has maintained a consistent meaning related to relevance and pertinence.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Stick to germane topics"

Explanation:

Used to encourage someone to focus on relevant matters rather than digressing or bringing up unrelated subjects.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "germane" with "german."

Explanation:

"Germane" and "German" are not related in origin or meaning. "Germane" refers to relevance, while "German" refers to the nationality or language.

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