adjective

pertinent

PURT-nunt/ˈpɜːrtnənt/

Directly related to the matter at hand.

The matching footprint photograph is pertinent to the detective's investigation.

A detective selects the one matching footprint photograph from several unrelated documents, directly relevant evidence.

Etymology

perLatinthrough

+tinLatinhold

+entLatinpresent participle

The 'hold' element forms part of a verb meaning 'reach' or 'stretch,' and also 'relate to.' Something pertinent is therefore connected to the subject being considered.

In context

The Scottish Parliament71:32

the remits of this committee is culture, obviously—it is in our title—and we cover it, particularly Scottish culture in Europe but also European culture coming to Scotland. It is very pertinent.

Constitution, Europe, External Affairs and Culture Committee - 8 February 2024

More examples

Please include only the details pertinent to your complaint.
The report contains information pertinent to our decision.
His experience makes his advice especially pertinent.

Forms

pertinent

pertinence noun — The quality of being directly relevant.

Similar words

relevant: Relevant covers any connection; pertinent stresses a direct, useful one.
applicable: Applicable stresses whether something can be used in this situation.