Vocabulary in context
SAT Vocabulary Workbook
The closest companion to SATVocab for students who want guided lessons and written practice.
Check the workbook
Pertinent
Relevant or applicable to a particular matter; having to do with the topic at hand.
adjectiveCheck this word before you leave
Pick the meaning. Keys A–D work too.
How well do you know this word now?
Your choice schedules the next review.
💡
Imagine This
During a science conference Q&A, the presenter only cites data that is pertinent to the experiment being discussed, skipping off-topic anecdotes.
🔊
Sounds Like
PER-tuh-nuhnt
👀
Looks Like
pertain + ent (looks like the related word pertain)
📝
Remember This
Pertinent comes from the verb pertain, meaning to relate or belong to something. It is commonly used to describe information, questions, or details that are relevant to the issue at hand.
📚
Other Forms
pertainverb
pertinencenoun
pertinentlyadverb
pertainingadjective/participle
🔗
Connect With
relevant, germane, applicable, apropos, related
📌
Note
Use pertinent to distinguish relevance from mere importance. Pair with 'to' (pertinent to) or 'in' (pertinent in) as appropriate. Do not confuse with 'pertinacious' (stubborn) or 'important' (not necessarily relevant).
🧠
Study Deeper
Examples
- The lawyer argued that the new evidence was pertinent to the case.
- Please include only the pertinent details in your report.
Synonyms
relevantgermaneapplicableaproposrelated
Antonyms
irrelevantextraneousunrelated
Etymology
From Latin pertinēns 'pertaining, relating,' from pertinēre 'to pertain, belong' (per- 'to' + tenēre 'to hold, grasp').
Mnemonic
Think: Pertinent = Pertains To the topic at hand. Visualize a document stamped 'PERTINENT' only when its content directly pertains to the matter being discussed.
Next Word
Continue in alphabetical order.
Try a Random Word
Pick any word below to jump in.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Abstruse
adjectiveDifficult to understand; obscure or highly complex.
Accidental
adjectiveHappening by chance or without deliberate planning; not intended. In music, it is also a noun for a symbol that temporarily alters a pitch.
Acerbic
adjectiveSharp or biting in tone or taste; caustic or mordant in manner.
Acquiescent
adjectiveReady to agree or approve without protest; compliant.
Adamant
adjectiveRigid in opinion or purpose; not willing to change one's mind or position.
Adept
adjectiveHaving or showing a high level of skill or proficiency; very capable.
Study beyond this word
Turn vocabulary practice into a complete SAT plan
Add a workbook for repetition or the official guide for full-test context.
First-time test takers
Official SAT Guide
Official question styles, test structure, and print practice from the College Board.
Check the official guidePaid Amazon links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.