What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pertinent
Example
The professor provided some pertinent examples to illustrate his point. [pertinent: adjective]
Example
It's important to ask pertinent questions during a job interview. [pertinent: adjective]
appropriate
Example
It's not appropriate to wear jeans to a wedding. [appropriate: adjective]
Example
The teacher asked the students to choose an appropriate book for their reading level. [appropriate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Appropriate is more commonly used than pertinent in everyday language. Appropriate is a versatile word that can be used in many contexts, while pertinent is more specific and often used in academic or technical settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between pertinent and appropriate?
Pertinent is typically associated with a more formal tone, while appropriate can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
