Apropos
adjective / adverb /ˌæprəˈpəʊ/ — Perfectly relevant and timely — exactly right for the situation.
Definition
Completely appropriate or relevant to the moment — said of a remark, idea, or action that fits the situation with such precision that its timing and content seem almost designed.
Beyond the definition
Apropos is the word for perfect relevance. When something is apropos, it is not just relevant — it arrives at precisely the right moment and illuminates precisely the right thing.
Origin & history
French 'à propos' — 'à' (to) + 'propos' (purpose, matter). Literally 'to the purpose' — directly relevant to what is being discussed.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
Her observation was so apropos it silenced the argument.
'Apropos of nothing' is a phrase for the thought that arrives without being called.
The quote he chose was apropos — everyone in the room felt its accuracy.
How to use it
Follow this entry’s examples for grammatical form and sentence placement.
Choose “Apropos” when the meaning fits your context: Completely appropriate or relevant to the moment — said of a remark, idea, or action that fits the situation with such precision that its timing and content seem almost designed.
Synonyms
pertinent, apt, relevant, timely, fitting
Antonyms
irrelevant, inapt, untimely
Related words
Questions about this word
What does "Apropos" mean?
Apropos is adjective / adverb meaning: Perfectly relevant and timely — exactly right for the situation.. Completely appropriate or relevant to the moment — said of a remark, idea, or action that fits the situation with such precision that its timing and content seem almost designed.
Where does the word "Apropos" come from?
French 'à propos' — 'à' (to) + 'propos' (purpose, matter). Literally 'to the purpose' — directly relevant to what is being discussed.