Pertinence: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when you want to emphasize how closely related something is to the topic at hand, especially in formal or academic settings.

• Her comments had a direct pertinence to the issues we were discussing
• The pertinence of this research to current economic trends is undeniable

Use this word to indicate how something is connected or important to the matter being discussed, often when considering broader impacts or implications.

• The relevance of her work to modern architecture is clear
• Many people questioned the relevance of his comments in the context of the discussion

Best used when discussing how well a concept, rule, or proposal can be applied to a particular situation or case.

• The applicability of this law to small businesses remains a topic of debate
• We need to test the applicability of this theory in real-world scenarios

Ideal for discussing whether something is suitable or proper for a specific situation, often considering social norms or expectations. Can imply a moral or ethical dimension.

• Questions were raised about the appropriateness of his behavior at the meeting
• They are debating the appropriateness of this attire for the event

This word is similar to 'relevance' and is used in neutral contexts to convey how closely something relates to a matter at hand, often with a slight formal tone.

• The speaker stressed the pertinence of historical context in understanding modern issues

A general term widely used to indicate the degree to which something is related to or useful for a particular topic or matter. It is neutral and very common in everyday language.

• She questioned the relevance of his comments during the meeting

This is best used when considering if something is suitable or proper for a particular situation or context. It commonly carries a judgment about what is right or fitting.

• She questioned the appropriateness of his casual attire at the formal event

Typically used in formal or legal contexts to indicate the significance or importance of information in influencing decisions, especially in financial or legal matters.

• The auditor emphasized the materiality of the discovered discrepancies in the financial report

Used to refer to the direct connection or importance of something to the matter at hand, often in formal or academic contexts.

• The pertinence of his research to the current issues was evident.
• During the meeting, she questioned the pertinence of these statistics.

Refers to the connection or significance of something to the matter at hand, often used in discussions, arguments, and informational contexts.

• The relevance of his argument to the case was undeniable.
• They debated the relevance of historical events to the current situation.

Refers to the suitability of something for a particular situation or purpose, often used in social, cultural, or professional contexts.

• She questioned the appropriateness of his casual attire at the formal event.
• The appropriateness of the comment was discussed during the meeting.

Refers to how something can be applied or is relevant in a practical sense, often used in contexts involving rules, principles, theories, and other frameworks.

• The applicability of the new law to small businesses is still under debate.
• His discovery has wide applicability in modern medicine.