What is the difference between relevant and pertinent?

Definitions

relevant

- Referring to something that is closely connected or applicable to a particular subject or matter.

- Talking about something that is significant or important in a given context.

- Describing something that is up-to-date or current in a particular field or area.

pertinent

- Referring to something that is directly related to the matter at hand.

- Talking about something that is appropriate or suitable for a particular situation or context.

- Describing something that is essential or crucial to understanding a particular issue or problem.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both words describe something that is connected or related to a particular subject or matter.
• 2. Both words can be used to indicate the importance or significance of something.
• 3. Both words are commonly used in academic and professional contexts.

What is the difference?

• 1. Scope: Relevant has a broader scope and can refer to anything that is connected or applicable to a particular subject or matter, while pertinent is more specific and refers to something that is directly related to the matter at hand.
• 2. Appropriateness: Pertinent emphasizes the appropriateness or suitability of something for a particular situation or context, while relevant does not necessarily imply appropriateness.
• 3. Essentiality: Pertinent suggests that something is essential or crucial to understanding a particular issue or problem, while relevant does not necessarily imply essentiality.
• 4. Usage: Relevant is more commonly used than pertinent in everyday language.
• 5. Connotation: Pertinent has a slightly more formal connotation than relevant, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

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Remember this!

Relevant and pertinent are synonyms that describe something that is connected or related to a particular subject or matter. However, pertinent is more specific and emphasizes the appropriateness or suitability of something for a particular situation or context, while relevant has a broader scope and can refer to anything that is connected or applicable to a particular subject or matter.