Meaning & use
if applicable
Last updated
Meaning
phrasefixed phrase
Used to say that an instruction or request matters only in cases where it fits the person's or the situation's circumstances; otherwise it can be skipped.
Grammar: Usually added at the end of a clause: list your previous employers, if applicable.
Patterns
- provide something, if applicable
- delete as appropriate, if applicable
Please enter your student number, if applicable.
Attach the receipt for each expense and a note from your manager, if applicable.
Tick the box for your spouse's name, if applicable, and leave it blank otherwise.
Common combinations
- list names, if applicable
- List any former names, if applicable, in section two.
- include a reference number, if applicable
- Include a reference number, if applicable, so we can find your file quickly.
- state the date, if applicable
- State the date of the accident, if applicable.
- sign here, if applicable
- Parents or guardians should sign here, if applicable.
- mention allergies, if applicable
- Mention any allergies, if applicable, when you book the table.
Synonyms and how they differ
- where relevant
- It is a little more plain and flexible, and works well in emails, whereas if applicable sounds more like form-filling language.
- as appropriate
- It leaves the decision to the person acting, while if applicable says the item depends on whether the case fits.
- if relevant
- It is everyday and slightly softer, and is less typical on official forms.
- where necessary
- It points to need rather than fit, so it suits instructions about actions rather than information to fill in.
Word family
- applicable adjective
- relevant or able to be applied in a given case
- applicability noun
- the quality of being relevant to a case
- apply verb
- to be relevant to, or to put into use
- inapplicable adjective
- not relevant to the case
Commonly confused: if applicable or if possible?
if applicable vs if possible
If possible means only when it can be done; if applicable means only when it fits your situation. A form might ask for a middle name, if applicable, because some people have none.
Practice
The form says: 'Give your business address, ______.' Which phrase tells people to skip it if they do not run a business?
Choose one answer.
If applicable means the item matters only when it fits your situation. If possible is about whether you are able to do it, which is not the point here.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “if applicable”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.