Pertinent vs. Relevant: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 29, 2023
Pertinent means directly related to a particular matter; relevant refers to being closely connected or appropriate to the topic at hand.
Key Differences
Pertinent implies a direct and significant connection to the matter being considered, often emphasizing the importance of the relationship. Relevant, while similar, is broader, denoting a connection that is applicable to the subject but not necessarily direct or crucial.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 29, 2023
In legal contexts, pertinent often refers to evidence that is directly on point with the issue at hand. Relevant, in the same context, means evidence that is applicable and has a bearing on the case, but may not be as directly connected.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 29, 2023
Pertinent information or details are those that are exactly suitable for a particular situation or task. Relevant information, though applicable and related, might not be as specifically tailored or targeted.
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Dec 29, 2023
When something is pertinent, it is seen as directly and indisputably related to the matter. In contrast, relevant information or facts may contribute to understanding but may not be as directly aligned with the specific focus.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 29, 2023
Pertinent often carries a sense of being critically important to the specific point or issue. Relevant, while important, does not necessarily imply critical importance to the core of the subject matter.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 29, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Connection to the Subject
Direct and significant
Applicable, but not always direct
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Dec 29, 2023
Contexts
Used in more specific and targeted situations
Broadly used in a range of contexts
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Dec 29, 2023
Legal Usage
Directly on point with the issue
Applicable and has bearing on the case
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Dec 29, 2023
Suitability
Specifically tailored to a situation
Related but not necessarily tailored
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Dec 29, 2023
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Pertinent and Relevant Definitions
Pertinent
Appropriate to a particular situation.
He asked a pertinent question during the lecture.
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Dec 29, 2023
Relevant
Appropriate to the current topic.
He made several relevant points during the debate.
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Dec 29, 2023
Pertinent
Being of striking appropriateness.
She made a pertinent observation about the policy.
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Dec 29, 2023
Relevant
Having significant and demonstrable bearing on the matter.
Her skills are highly relevant for this job.
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Dec 29, 2023
Pertinent
Directly related to the matter at hand.
Her comments were pertinent to the discussion.
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Dec 29, 2023
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Relevant
Pertaining to the issue under consideration.
The witness gave relevant testimony.
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Dec 29, 2023
Pertinent
Relevant or applicable to a particular matter.
The lawyer presented pertinent evidence in court.
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Dec 29, 2023
Relevant
Being of importance or significance.
The study's findings are relevant to the argument.
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Dec 29, 2023
Pertinent
Having precise or logical relevance.
The report included all pertinent data.
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Dec 29, 2023
Relevant
Closely connected to the subject.
The article was relevant to my research.
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Dec 29, 2023
Relevant
Meaningful or purposeful in current society or culture
Thought that the traditional male role of breadwinner was no longer relevant.
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Oct 19, 2023
Pertinent
Important with regard to (a subject or matter); pertaining; relevant.
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Oct 19, 2023
Pertinent
Belonging or related to the subject or matter in hand; fit or appropriate in any way; adapted to the end proposed; apposite; material; relevant; as, pertinent illustrations or arguments; pertinent evidence.
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Oct 19, 2023
Relevant
(Usually and especially) Directly related, connected, or pertinent, with important ramifications or implications.
His mother provided some relevant background information concerning his medical condition.
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Oct 19, 2023
Pertinent
Having precise or logical relevance to the matter at hand;
A list of articles pertinent to the discussion
Remarks that were to the point
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Oct 19, 2023
Pertinent
Being of striking appropriateness and pertinence;
The successful copywriter is a master of apposite and evocative verbal images
An apt reply
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Oct 19, 2023
Relevant
Bearing upon, or properly applying to, the case in hand; pertinent; applicable.
Close and relevant arguments have very little hold on the passions.
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Oct 19, 2023
Relevant
Having a bearing on or connection with the subject at issue;
The scientist corresponds with colleagues in order to learn about matters relevant to her own research
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Oct 19, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Do journalists need to find relevant information?
Yes, journalists seek information that is relevant to their story.
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Dec 29, 2023
Is pertinent information always necessary?
It is essential in contexts where direct relevance is crucial.
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Dec 29, 2023
Can something be relevant but not pertinent?
Yes, if it's related to the topic but not directly important.
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Dec 29, 2023
Can a fact be relevant but not decisive in an argument?
Yes, relevant facts may contribute without being decisive.
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Dec 29, 2023
Can relevant information change over time?
Yes, as the context or topic evolves, relevance can change.
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Dec 29, 2023
Should teachers provide pertinent examples in class?
Yes, to directly illustrate the topic being taught.
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Dec 29, 2023
Is pertinent used in everyday language?
It's more common in formal or professional contexts.
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Dec 29, 2023
Is it important for a lawyer to present pertinent evidence?
Absolutely, as it directly impacts the case.
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Dec 29, 2023
Are pertinent and relevant synonyms?
They are similar but have different nuances in usage.
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Dec 29, 2023
Do pertinent facts always influence decisions?
Typically, they have a significant impact on decision-making.
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Dec 29, 2023
Does a pertinent remark always address the main issue?
Yes, it directly pertains to the central point.
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Dec 29, 2023
Can advertising be relevant to a consumer's needs?
Yes, if it aligns with their interests and requirements.
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Dec 29, 2023
Can a piece of art be relevant?
Yes, if it relates to current social or cultural themes.
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Dec 29, 2023
Can something be relevant in one context but not another?
Yes, relevance is often context-dependent.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 29, 2023
Is a pertinent question always on-topic?
Yes, it directly relates to the subject being discussed.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 29, 2023
Can the relevance of a theory change over time?
Yes, as new information or perspectives emerge.
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Dec 29, 2023
Is relevancy subjective in some cases?
It can be, depending on the context and perspective.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 29, 2023
Does pertinent imply a closer connection than relevant?
Generally, yes, it implies a more direct connection.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 29, 2023
Are pertinent details crucial in scientific research?
Yes, especially details directly related to the hypothesis.
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Dec 29, 2023
Is it possible for historical facts to be relevant today?
Yes, if they have a bearing on current events or situations.
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Dec 29, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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