Synonym Chooser

How is the word pertinent different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of pertinent are applicable, apposite, apropos, germane, material, and relevant. While all these words mean "relating to or bearing upon the matter in hand," pertinent stresses a clear and decisive relevance.

a pertinent observation

In what contexts can applicable take the place of pertinent?

While the synonyms applicable and pertinent are close in meaning, applicable suggests the fitness of bringing a general rule or principle to bear upon a particular case.

the rule is not applicable in this case

When might apposite be a better fit than pertinent?

The synonyms apposite and pertinent are sometimes interchangeable, but apposite suggests a felicitous relevance.

add an apposite quotation to the definition

Where would apropos be a reasonable alternative to pertinent?

The words apropos and pertinent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, apropos suggests being both relevant and opportune.

the quip was apropos

When can germane be used instead of pertinent?

Although the words germane and pertinent have much in common, germane may additionally imply a fitness for or appropriateness to the situation or occasion.

a point not germane to the discussion

When is material a more appropriate choice than pertinent?

While in some cases nearly identical to pertinent, material implies so close a relationship that it cannot be dispensed with without serious alteration of the case.

facts material to the investigation

When would relevant be a good substitute for pertinent?

The words relevant and pertinent can be used in similar contexts, but relevant implies a traceable, significant, logical connection.

found material relevant to her case

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of pertinent Last week, Syracuse decided to halt admissions for 20 majors for the next academic year while the pertinent programs undergo an internal academic review. Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 6 Oct. 2025 Seldom, though, are the markers most pertinent to female longevity and health span discussed in the mainstream, as women’s health has been historically underfunded and understudied. Alexa Mikhail, Flow Space, 1 Oct. 2025 The penalty issues are still pertinent, and Monday night featured five flags (three accepted) on center Luke Wattenberg alone. Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 30 Sep. 2025 This time, CaBot latched on to the pertinent data and did not seem to make anything up. Dhruv Khullar, New Yorker, 22 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pertinent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pertinent
Adjective
  • The relevant question is whether defaults in private debt are increasing at a systemic level, and whether lenders are equipped to handle them constructively.
    Dave Smith, Fortune, 17 Oct. 2025
  • Press mentions, quality backlinks and the frequency of my proprietary frameworks’ citations indicate whether our narrative is resonating and relevant.
    Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 17 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The offer is applicable for a vehicle lease or purchase, according to Ann Marie Fortunate, a spokeswoman for Stellantis.
    Susan Tompor, USA Today, 19 Oct. 2025
  • These roles have given me strong skills in fiscal responsibility, transparency, and collaboration — qualities that are directly applicable to serving on the school board.
    Pioneer Press elections team, Twin Cities, 16 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Pertinent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pertinent. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on pertinent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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