apropos
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˌæprəˈpoʊ/
KK: /ˌæprəˈpoʊ/
adjective
Definition
Relevant and appropriate to a particular situation or context.
Example
Her comments were apropos to the discussion we were having about climate change.
Conversation
Did you hear her speech at the conference?
Yeah, it was quite apropos for the topic they were discussing.
I thought so too; she really hit the nail on the head.
Exactly! Her points were not only relevant but also very engaging.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
relevant
pertinent
apposite
Antonyms
irrelevant
inappropriate
unrelated
adverb
Definition
At a suitable or relevant time; used to introduce a related comment or topic.
Example
Apropos of our earlier discussion, I think we should consider a different approach.
Conversation
I was thinking about our last trip to the beach.
Yeah, that was a lot of fun!
Apropos of that, we should plan another getaway soon.
Root Explanation
Apropos is derived from the French phrase 'à propos' (meaning 'to the purpose' or 'regarding'). The term is used in English to indicate relevance or suitability in relation to a particular subject.
Memory Tip
Think of the French phrase 'à propos' meaning 'to the purpose' — this helps you remember that apropos refers to something that is relevant or appropriate.
Visually Confused Words
unapropos
propose
propons
props
malapropos
apotropous
proposer
proposal