What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
apropos
Example
Apropos of our earlier discussion, I have some additional information to share. [apropos: preposition]
Example
His comment was apropos to the current situation. [apropos: adjective]
appropriate
Example
Wearing formal attire is appropriate for a job interview. [appropriate: adjective]
Example
She appropriated funds from the budget for her personal use. [appropriated: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Appropriate is more commonly used than apropos in everyday language. Appropriate is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while apropos is less common and has a slightly more formal tone.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between apropos and appropriate?
While apropos is associated with a slightly more formal tone, appropriate can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a more flexible choice.