pertinent
Directly relevant and applicable to the matter at hand.
Examples
In a meeting
“Please include only the pertinent details in the executive summary.”
Over coffee
“That's a pertinent question — I hadn't thought about that angle.”
Why this word
relevant
pertinent implies direct connection to the specific matter at hand, while relevant is broader
related
pertinent suggests clear applicability and importance, while related only indicates connection
applicable
pertinent emphasizes direct bearing on the issue, while applicable focuses on whether something can be applied
Usage tip
Sharper than 'relevant'. Pertinent implies direct, focused applicability. Something relevant is broadly connected; something pertinent hits the mark.
Etymology
Latin pertinere — per (through) + tenere (to hold), literally 'to reach through to'
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Related words
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
concise
Giving a lot of information clearly in few words.
ambiguous
Open to more than one interpretation; not clear or decided.
convey
To communicate or make an idea, feeling, or meaning known.
reiterate
To say something again for emphasis or clarity.
paraphrase
To restate something in different words to make it clearer or shorter.