Germane
/dʒɜrˈmeɪn/
adjectiveC1
Definition
Germane describes something that is very relevant or connected to the main idea or topic. When something is germane, it fits well and helps understand or explain the subject clearly. It is often used in formal speaking or writing to show that a point or information is important and belongs to the conversation.
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See It in Action
Closely related to a topic or subject
- •Her comments were germane to the discussion about climate change.
- •Please keep your questions germane to the meeting agenda.
- •The lawyer only presented facts germane to the case.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "germane" like "important" or "related," but more precise—only things that really fit the topic
- ✓Picture a puzzle piece that fits perfectly into a puzzle—germane means it belongs exactly in that place
- ✓It's the feeling when someone talks about the exact thing you were thinking about, not something off-topic
- ✓Sounds like "jer-MANE" → imagine a man named "Mane" who always talks about the right things at the right time
- ✓Think of a teacher saying, "Your question is germane," meaning it is exactly about the lesson
- ✓NOT like "random" or "off-topic" (not connected), germane means connected and important
- ✓NOT like "interesting" (which can be unrelated), germane is about being directly related to the subject
Try Other Words
- •Relevant: connected or related to something (Use when the connection is clear but less formal)
- •Pertinent: directly related and important (Use in formal contexts like reports or discussions)
- •Applicable: suitable or useful for a situation (Use when something can be used or applied to the topic)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: (no clear prefix or suffix, root is "germane")
- •Etymology: From Old French "germain" meaning "related" or "of the same parents," from Latin "germanus" meaning "full brother" or "closely related"
- •Historical development: Originally used to mean close family relation, later used in English from the 1500s to mean closely related in ideas or topics
- •Modern usage: Used mainly in formal English to describe things that fit well with the subject being discussed, especially in law, debate, and academic writing
Reflect & Connect
•Can something be interesting but not germane? How does that affect a conversation?
•How can knowing the word germane help you focus your ideas when speaking or writing?
Fill in the blanks
1.During the meeting, she only shared ideas that were germane to the ___ of the project.
2.If your comment is not germane, it might ___ the main discussion.
3.A germane question usually helps to ___ the topic more clearly.
4.The judge asked the lawyer to speak only about facts ___ to the case.
5.When writing an essay, make sure all your points are germane ___ the main argument.
6.Sometimes people bring up information that is interesting but not germane, which can ___ the conversation.
7.To keep the discussion clear, avoid topics that are not germane ___ the subject.