"is not applicable" vs "is inapplicable"

Question

"is not applicable" vs "is inapplicable"

Both "is not applicable" and "is inapplicable" are correct phrases, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "Is not applicable" is more commonly used when something does not apply to a particular situation or case. On the other hand, "is inapplicable" is used to indicate that something is not relevant or appropriate in a broader sense.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

This phrase is used to convey that a particular rule, statement, or condition does not relate to the current context or is not relevant.

Examples:

The dress code policy is not applicable for casual Fridays.
This software update is not applicable to older operating systems.
The safety regulations are not applicable in this experimental setting.
The warranty is not applicable if the product has been tampered with.
The discount code is not applicable for sale items.

Alternatives:

does not apply
is not valid
is not relevant
is not suitable
is not appropriate

This phrase is used to convey that a particular rule, statement, or condition is not suitable or valid in a general context.

Examples:

The law is inapplicable in this jurisdiction.
The old policies are inapplicable to the current situation.
The guidelines are inapplicable to this unique case.
The standard procedures are inapplicable for emergencies.
The traditional approach is inapplicable in modern times.

Alternatives:

does not apply
is not relevant
is not suitable
is not appropriate
is not valid

Answer 1

is not applicable

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate that something does not apply to a specific situation or case.

Answer 2

is inapplicable

This phrase is also correct in English and is used to indicate that something is not relevant or appropriate in a broader sense.

"is not applicable" vs "is inapplicable"

is not applicable

is inapplicable

Related Comparisons