This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A2 adjective 10 min read

pertinente

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips pertinente in 30 Seconds

Explanation pertinente in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'pertinente' is a challenging word because it is quite long and formal. However, you might see it in very simple instructions or in formal greetings where someone says your help was 'relevant'. At this stage, you should simply recognize it as a word that means 'good' or 'correct for the situation'. You don't need to use it in your daily speech yet, but knowing that it doesn't change for men or women (it's always 'pertinente') is a good first step. Think of it as a fancy version of 'bom' (good) or 'certo' (right). If a teacher says 'Muito pertinente!', they are giving you a big compliment on your answer. It is one of those words that you will see in books before you hear it in the street. Focus on the fact that it ends in 'e', which is common for adjectives that work for both genders in Portuguese, like 'inteligente' or 'paciente'. Don't worry about the complex grammar yet; just know it means something fits the conversation.

By A2, you are starting to handle more professional and social situations. 'Pertinente' becomes useful when you want to agree with someone in a meeting or a classroom. Instead of just saying 'Sim' or 'Eu concordo', you can say 'O seu comentário é pertinente'. This shows you have a better vocabulary. You should also start noticing the preposition 'a' that follows it. For example, 'Isso é pertinente ao assunto' (This is relevant to the subject). At this level, you might confuse it with 'importante', but try to remember: 'importante' is about value, while 'pertinente' is about connection. If you are talking about a recipe, the price of the oven is 'importante', but the temperature of the oven is 'pertinente'. You should practice using it with the verb 'ser' (to be) in simple present tense sentences. It is a very safe word to use in emails to show that you are professional. Avoid using it with friends while watching a movie, as it might sound too formal for a casual setting.

At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'pertinente' comfortably in both writing and speech. You should understand that it is an 'epicene' adjective, meaning it stays the same for masculine and feminine nouns, but you must remember to pluralize it to 'pertinentes' when necessary. You will start to see it in news articles and more complex texts. This is the stage where you should also learn its noun form, 'pertinência'. You might hear a journalist ask about the 'pertinência' of a new law. You should also be aware of its antonym 'impertinente' and how it can mean both 'irrelevant' and 'rude'. B1 learners should practice using 'pertinente' to link ideas in short essays. For example, 'É pertinente notar que...' (It is relevant to note that...). This transition phrase helps your writing flow better. You are now moving beyond simple descriptions and starting to evaluate the quality of information, and 'pertinente' is the perfect tool for that evaluation.

At the B2 level, you are expected to understand the nuances between 'pertinente', 'relevante', and 'oportuno'. You should use 'pertinente' in professional environments to provide feedback. For instance, in a business report, you might write about 'dados pertinentes' (relevant data) to justify a decision. You should also be comfortable with the 'crase' when using the preposition 'a' after 'pertinente'. Knowing that 'pertinente à questão' requires an accent is a sign of B2 proficiency. You will also encounter 'pertinente' in legal or administrative contexts, where it might mean 'belonging to' or 'concerning'. For example, 'a documentação pertinente ao imóvel' (the documentation pertaining to the property). At this level, you should be able to use the adverb 'pertinentemente' in a sentence, though it remains rare in speech. You should also be able to identify when someone is using 'pertinente' ironically to point out that a comment was actually quite useless or out of place.

C1 learners should have a near-native grasp of 'pertinente'. You should use it to construct complex arguments in academic or high-level professional settings. You understand that 'pertinente' is not just about relevance, but about the logical necessity of a piece of information within a specific framework. You can use it in the subjunctive mood: 'Não me parece que essa observação seja pertinente para o caso em questão' (It doesn't seem to me that this observation is pertinent to the case in question). You should also be familiar with the historical and etymological roots of the word, understanding its connection to the Latin 'pertinere' (to reach, to belong). In literature, you might see it used in more abstract ways. You should be able to debate the 'pertinência' of a philosophical argument or a scientific theory. Your use of the word should be precise; you don't use it as a generic synonym for 'good', but as a specific descriptor for logical applicability.

At the C2 level, 'pertinente' is a tool for stylistic precision. You use it to navigate the most formal registers of the Portuguese language, such as legal briefs, scientific journals, or high literature. You are aware of its most obscure uses, such as its archaic meanings or its very specific applications in different branches of law (e.g., 'pertinência subjetiva'). You can manipulate the word within complex rhetorical structures, perhaps using it in a negative or restrictive sense to exclude irrelevant data with surgical precision. You understand the rhythm of the word in a sentence and can place it for maximum emphasis. A C2 speaker might use 'pertinente' to critique a speaker's logic in a way that is both devastating and perfectly polite. You also recognize the cultural weight of the word in different Lusophone countries, noting if a Portuguese lawyer uses it differently than a Brazilian academic. At this level, the word is no longer a vocabulary item but a precise instrument in your linguistic toolkit.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

pertinente in 30 Seconds

Pertinente means relevant or appropriate to a specific topic, often used in formal, academic, or professional Portuguese settings to validate a contribution.
It is an epicene adjective, meaning it has the same form for both masculine and feminine nouns, simplifying agreement for learners.
Commonly followed by prepositions 'a' or 'para', it establishes a logical link between an idea and the current context of discussion.
While similar to 'relevante', it emphasizes 'fittingness' and logical connection more than just general importance or widespread impact.

The Portuguese word pertinente is a sophisticated yet common adjective used to describe something that is relevant, appropriate, or directly applicable to the matter at hand. While English speakers might default to 'relevant' in most situations, 'pertinente' carries a weight of precision and timeliness that makes it indispensable in professional, academic, and even thoughtful everyday conversations. It functions as a bridge between a thought and its context, ensuring that what is being said or done 'belongs' to the situation. In Portuguese culture, being 'pertinente' is highly valued in debates and meetings because it suggests that the contributor is paying close attention and adding value rather than just speaking for the sake of speaking.

Semantic Range: The word covers everything from a logical connection in an argument to the suitability of a document in a legal case. It implies a 'fittingness' that 'relevante' sometimes lacks.
Social Nuance: Using 'pertinente' instead of 'importante' marks the speaker as someone with a refined vocabulary. It shows a level of education and professional decorum that is essential in formal Portuguese settings.

A sua pergunta foi muito pertinente para o debate de hoje.

Translation: Your question was very relevant to today's debate.

One of the most interesting aspects of 'pertinente' is its relationship with its antonym, 'impertinente'. In English, 'impertinent' often means rude or disrespectful. In Portuguese, while 'impertinente' can mean rude, its primary logical meaning is 'not pertinent' or 'irrelevant'. Therefore, when you use 'pertinente', you are asserting the logical validity of an intervention. It is frequently used in the context of law (legal relevance of evidence), education (relevance of a curriculum), and business (applicability of a strategy). When a manager says a suggestion is 'pertinente', they are not just saying it's good; they are saying it solves the specific problem currently on the table.

Este documento não é pertinente ao processo judicial.

Translation: This document is not relevant to the legal process.

To truly master this word, one must understand that it describes a relationship between two things. A comment is not just 'pertinente' in a vacuum; it is 'pertinente' *to* a topic. This relational nature is why it is so often followed by the preposition 'a' or 'para'. For example, 'pertinente ao assunto' (relevant to the subject). In modern digital discourse, you might see it in comments on LinkedIn or academic forums where users validate each other's contributions. It is a word of intellectual validation.

O professor considerou a observação do aluno extremamente pertinente.

Usage in Media: Journalists use 'pertinente' when questioning politicians, often prefacing a tough question with 'Se me permite uma pergunta pertinente...' (If I may ask a relevant question...).

Using 'pertinente' correctly involves understanding its grammatical placement and the prepositions that usually accompany it. As an adjective, it typically follows the noun it modifies, but it can also follow linking verbs like 'ser' (to be), 'parecer' (to seem), or 'tornar-se' (to become). Because it describes a relationship of belonging or relevance, it is frequently paired with the preposition 'a' (to/at) or 'para' (for).

With the Preposition 'A': When you want to say something is relevant 'to' something else, use 'a'. Note that 'a' often merges with the definite article 'o/a' to become 'ao' or 'à'. Example: 'Informação pertinente ao caso' (Information relevant to the case).

As críticas foram pertinentes ao contexto da obra.

In plural forms, 'pertinente' becomes 'pertinentes'. It is crucial to match the number with the noun. For instance, 'um argumento pertinente' (one relevant argument) versus 'dois argumentos pertinentes' (two relevant arguments). Unlike many Portuguese adjectives, it does not change for gender. 'O comentário' (masculine) is pertinente, and 'a observação' (feminine) is also pertinente. This makes it slightly easier for English speakers to manage grammatically.

Ela sempre faz intervenções pertinentes durante as reuniões de condomínio.

In more complex sentence structures, 'pertinente' can be used to introduce a clause, although this is more common in formal writing. For example: 'É pertinente ressaltar que...' (It is relevant to emphasize that...). This is a standard 'filler' phrase in academic essays and formal reports to introduce a key point that the reader must not overlook.

Formal Writing Structure: 'É pertinente que + [subjunctive]' is a common construction. Example: 'É pertinente que todos participem' (It is relevant/appropriate that everyone participates).

Não creio que esse exemplo seja pertinente para o que estamos discutindo.

Finally, consider the adverbial form 'pertinentemente'. While long and a bit of a mouthful, it is used to describe actions done in a relevant manner. 'Ele respondeu pertinentemente às dúvidas' (He responded relevantly to the doubts). However, in spoken Portuguese, people often prefer to use the adjective with a verb or a phrase like 'de forma pertinente'.

You will encounter 'pertinente' in environments where precision of language is paramount. It is not a slang word, nor is it typically used in highly informal settings like a football match or a casual bar conversation, unless the speaker is being intentionally ironic or formal. However, in the following four areas, it is ubiquitous.

1. The Corporate World: In office meetings in Lisbon or São Paulo, 'pertinente' is the go-to word for validating a colleague's idea. It sounds more professional than 'bom' (good) or 'legal' (cool). If a CEO says your point is 'pertinente', it means they are actually considering it for the business strategy.

Essa análise de mercado é extremamente pertinente para o nosso novo projeto.

2. Academic and Educational Settings: Professors use this word constantly when grading papers or responding to students. In a thesis defense, a 'pergunta pertinente' from the jury is one that touches on a core weakness or strength of the research. Students are encouraged to make 'colocações pertinentes' (relevant contributions) in class discussions.

O artigo traz dados pertinentes sobre o aquecimento global.

3. Legal and Bureaucratic Contexts: In Portuguese law, 'pertinência' (the noun form) is a technical requirement for evidence. If a piece of evidence is not 'pertinente', the judge will dismiss it. You will see this in news reports about trials or in official government documents regarding regulations and laws.

4. News and Media: Television commentators on news channels like SIC (Portugal) or GloboNews (Brazil) use 'pertinente' to describe political maneuvers or public statements. It is a way of saying a statement 'makes sense' in the current political climate.

A decisão do governo pareceu pertinente diante da crise sanitária.

Cultural Note: In Portugal, there is a famous non-profit foundation called 'Fundação Francisco Manuel dos Santos' that runs a project called 'Pordata' and 'Pertinente' - a podcast that discusses relevant social data. This shows how the word is synonymous with 'deep and meaningful discussion' in the public eye.

While 'pertinente' is a relatively straightforward cognate for English speakers (resembling 'pertinent'), there are several pitfalls that learners often fall into, ranging from grammatical errors to semantic confusion with its antonym.

The 'Impertinente' Trap: In English, 'impertinent' almost always means 'rude'. In Portuguese, 'impertinente' *can* mean rude, but it also frequently means 'irrelevant'. However, learners sometimes use 'pertinente' when they simply mean 'polite'. This is incorrect. 'Pertinente' is about logic and relevance, not manners.

Another common mistake is gender agreement. Because 'pertinente' ends in 'e', it is the same for both genders. Learners who are used to the 'o/a' ending pattern often try to say 'pertinenta' for feminine nouns. There is no such word as 'pertinenta'. Always use 'pertinente' regardless of the gender of the noun.

Incorrect: Uma resposta pertinenta.
Correct: Uma resposta pertinente.

Learners also struggle with the preposition. In English, we say 'relevant TO'. In Portuguese, we also use 'a' (to), but learners often forget the 'crase' (the accent on 'à') when the following word is feminine. 'Pertinente à situação' is correct, but 'Pertinente a situação' (without the accent) is a common grammatical error even for native speakers.

Overuse is another issue. While 'pertinente' is a great word, using it in a very casual setting can make you sound 'empolado' (pompous). If you are talking to a friend about a movie, saying 'O seu comentário foi pertinente' might sound like you are a professor grading them. In casual speech, 'tem a ver' (has to do with) or 'faz sentido' (makes sense) are more natural alternatives.

Overly Formal: O seu conselho sobre a pizza foi pertinente.
Natural: O seu conselho sobre a pizza fez todo o sentido.

Confusion with 'Relativo': While 'relativo' means 'relative to', it doesn't always imply relevance. 'Pertinente' implies that the connection is important or useful. 'Relativo' just implies a connection exists.

To expand your Portuguese vocabulary, it is helpful to see 'pertinente' alongside its synonyms and near-synonyms. Each has a slightly different shade of meaning that can change the tone of your sentence.

Relevante: This is the most direct synonym. It means 'relevant' or 'important'. While 'pertinente' focuses on the logical fit, 'relevante' often focuses on the importance or impact of the information.
Apropriado / Adequado: These mean 'appropriate' or 'adequate'. They are used when something fits the social or technical requirements of a situation. 'Pertinente' is more about the content of an idea, while 'apropriado' is often about behavior or tools.
Oportuno: Meaning 'timely' or 'opportunistic'. If a comment is 'pertinente', it's logically correct; if it's 'oportuno', it came at exactly the right moment.
Cabível: Used frequently in legal and official contexts. It means 'applicable' or 'fitting'. 'Não é cabível recurso' (No appeal is applicable/possible).

Comparison:
1. Uma ideia pertinente (A logically fitting idea).
2. Uma ideia oportuna (An idea that came at the right time).
3. Uma ideia relevante (An important idea).

When you want to express the opposite, you have a few choices. 'Irrelevante' is the most common. 'Descabido' is a strong word meaning 'out of place' or 'absurd'. 'Impertinente', as mentioned, can be used for irrelevance but carry a risk of being interpreted as 'rude'.

Understanding these alternatives allows you to calibrate your speech. Use 'pertinente' for intellectual precision, 'relevante' for general importance, and 'oportuno' for perfect timing. This level of nuance is what separates an intermediate learner from a truly fluent speaker.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"A prova documental é pertinente ao objeto da lide."

Neutral

"A sua pergunta é muito pertinente, vamos discutir isso."

Informal

"O que você disse foi pertinente, mas um pouco chato."

Child friendly

"Essa sua ideia combina muito com a nossa brincadeira!"

Slang

"Isso tem tudo a ver, mano!"

Fun Fact

The word is logically connected to 'pertencer' (to belong). Therefore, something that is 'pertinente' is something that 'belongs' to the conversation or situation.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /peɾ.ti.ˈnẽ.tɨ/

US /peɾ.tʃi.ˈnẽ.tʃi/

The stress is on the penultimate syllable: per-ti-NEN-te.

Rhymes With

consciente ausente presente contente diferente prudente urgente mente

Common Errors

Pronouncing it like the English 'pertinent' without the final 'e' sound.
In Brazil, forgetting to palatalize the 'ti' and 'te' if aiming for a standard accent.
In Portugal, making the 'e' sounds too open when they should be closed.
Nasalizing the 'n' too much like an English 'ng' sound.
Misplacing the stress on the last syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize due to the English cognate 'pertinent'.

Writing 3/5

Requires knowledge of pluralization and preposition usage (crase).

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation of the nasal 'en' and the final 'e' can be tricky for beginners.

Listening 2/5

Usually spoken clearly in formal contexts.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

importante certo sobre assunto pergunta

Learn Next

relevante pertinência oportuno adequado cabível

Advanced

consubstanciar concernente depreender aludir

Grammar to Know

Epicene Adjectives

O aluno é pertinente / A aluna é pertinente. (No change for gender).

Pluralization of adjectives ending in 'e'

Um caso pertinente -> Dois casos pertinentes.

Prepositional Contraction (Crase)

Pertinente a + a situação = Pertinente à situação.

Placement of Adjectives

Usually follows the noun: 'uma dúvida pertinente'.

Subjunctive after Impersonal Expressions

É pertinente que você ESTUDE. (Subjunctive mood).

Examples by Level

O seu livro é pertinente.

Your book is relevant.

Simple Subject + Verb + Adjective structure.

Esta pergunta é pertinente?

Is this question relevant?

Interrogative sentence using 'pertinente'.

O comentário foi pertinente.

The comment was relevant.

Past tense 'foi' with 'pertinente'.

Não é pertinente agora.

It is not relevant now.

Negative construction.

Muito pertinente!

Very relevant!

Exclamatory use as a compliment.

A resposta é pertinente.

The answer is relevant.

Note that 'resposta' is feminine but 'pertinente' doesn't change.

Um exemplo pertinente.

A relevant example.

Noun phrase with an adjective.

Isso é pertinente.

That is relevant.

Using the demonstrative pronoun 'isso'.

A sua dúvida é muito pertinente ao assunto.

Your doubt is very relevant to the subject.

Use of 'ao' (a + o) after 'pertinente'.

Precisamos de informações pertinentes.

We need relevant information.

Plural form 'pertinentes'.

O professor deu um exemplo pertinente.

The teacher gave a relevant example.

Adjective following the noun.

Este detalhe não parece pertinente.

This detail doesn't seem relevant.

Using 'parecer' as a linking verb.

Achei a sua observação pertinente.

I found your observation relevant.

Verb 'achar' + object + adjective.

É uma questão pertinente para nós.

It is a relevant question for us.

Use of 'para' (for) to show relevance to a group.

Eles fizeram perguntas pertinentes.

They asked relevant questions.

Plural agreement with 'perguntas'.

O guia deu uma dica pertinente.

The guide gave a relevant tip.

Feminine noun 'dica' with 'pertinente'.

É pertinente ressaltar a importância do projeto.

It is relevant to emphasize the importance of the project.

Impersonal construction 'É pertinente + infinitive'.

A documentação não era pertinente ao processo.

The documentation was not relevant to the process.

Imperfect tense 'era'.

As críticas foram pertinentes e construtivas.

The criticisms were relevant and constructive.

Two adjectives modifying the same plural noun.

Não considero esse argumento pertinente.

I don't consider this argument relevant.

Verb 'considerar' + object + adjective.

A palestra trouxe temas muito pertinentes.

The lecture brought very relevant themes.

Plural noun 'temas' with 'pertinentes'.

O seu comentário foi pertinente à discussão.

Your comment was relevant to the discussion.

Use of 'à' (a + a) indicating feminine relevance.

Devemos focar no que é pertinente.

We must focus on what is relevant.

Substantive use of the adjective with 'o que'.

Surgiram dúvidas pertinentes durante a aula.

Relevant doubts arose during the class.

Inverted subject-verb order.

A petição foi indeferida por não ser pertinente.

The petition was denied for not being relevant.

Passive voice 'foi indeferida' and gerund phrase.

É pertinente que se faça uma análise profunda.

It is relevant that a deep analysis be made.

Subjunctive mood 'faça' after 'É pertinente que'.

As provas apresentadas são pertinentes ao caso.

The evidence presented is relevant to the case.

Complex subject with a past participle 'apresentadas'.

O autor faz uma reflexão pertinente sobre a sociedade.

The author makes a relevant reflection on society.

Collocation 'fazer uma reflexão'.

Tais medidas não me parecem pertinentes agora.

Such measures do not seem relevant to me now.

Use of 'tais' (such) and indirect object 'me'.

A intervenção do mediador foi extremamente pertinente.

The mediator's intervention was extremely relevant.

Adverb 'extremamente' modifying the adjective.

Buscamos soluções que sejam pertinentes ao mercado.

We seek solutions that are relevant to the market.

Relative clause with the subjunctive 'sejam'.

O relatório contém observações pertinentes ao projeto.

The report contains observations relevant to the project.

Verb 'conter' (to contain).

A argumentação, embora pertinente, carece de provas.

The argument, although relevant, lacks proof.

Concessive clause with 'embora'.

É pertinente questionar a validade desses dados.

It is relevant to question the validity of these data.

Infinitive as a subject.

A pertinência da sua tese foi elogiada pela banca.

The relevance of your thesis was praised by the committee.

Noun form 'pertinência'.

O texto aborda questões pertinentes à ética médica.

The text addresses questions relevant to medical ethics.

Verb 'abordar' (to address/approach).

Não obstante ser pertinente, a proposta foi rejeitada.

Despite being relevant, the proposal was rejected.

Formal link 'Não obstante'.

O orador discorreu sobre temas pertinentes à atualidade.

The speaker discussed themes relevant to current events.

Verb 'discorrer' (to discourse/speak at length).

Trata-se de uma observação pertinente e oportuna.

It is a relevant and timely observation.

Impersonal 'Trata-se de'.

A escolha do vocabulário deve ser pertinente ao gênero.

The choice of vocabulary must be relevant to the genre.

Modal verb 'deve ser'.

A pertinência subjetiva é um conceito jurídico complexo.

Subjective relevance is a complex legal concept.

Technical legal terminology.

O ensaio prima pela pertinência das suas conclusões.

The essay stands out for the relevance of its conclusions.

Verb 'primar por' (to excel/stand out for).

Quão pertinente seria tal medida no cenário atual?

How relevant would such a measure be in the current scenario?

Exclamatory/Interrogative 'Quão' + adjective.

A análise peca por falta de dados pertinentes.

The analysis fails due to a lack of relevant data.

Idiomatic 'pecar por' (to fail/sin by).

Pertinente se faz notar que a lei mudou.

It is relevant to note that the law has changed.

Highly formal inversion with 'se faz'.

A pertinência do objeto de estudo é inquestionável.

The relevance of the object of study is unquestionable.

Abstract noun phrase.

O autor tece comentários pertinentes à historiografia.

The author weaves relevant comments into the historiography.

Metaphorical verb 'tecer' (to weave).

A prova colhida revelou-se pertinente ao desfecho.

The evidence gathered proved relevant to the outcome.

Pronominal verb 'revelar-se'.

Common Collocations

pergunta pertinente

comentário pertinente

informação pertinente

pertinente ao caso

extremamente pertinente

considerar pertinente

pertinente à discussão

dados pertinentes

observação pertinente

ser pertinente ressaltar

Common Phrases

Se me permite uma pergunta pertinente

— A polite way to interrupt or introduce a challenging question in a formal setting.

Se me permite uma pergunta pertinente, qual o custo disso?

O que for pertinente

— Whatever is relevant or applicable.

Traga apenas o que for pertinente para a reunião.

Em tudo o que for pertinente

— In everything that is relevant.

A lei aplica-se em tudo o que for pertinente.

Considerar pertinente

— To deem something relevant.

O diretor não considerou pertinente a mudança.

Não vem ao caso / Não é pertinente

— Used to dismiss something as irrelevant.

Isso agora não é pertinente.

Acho pertinente dizer que

— I think it's relevant to say that.

Acho pertinente dizer que já tentamos isso antes.

Dentro do que é pertinente

— Within what is relevant.

Vamos agir dentro do que é pertinente ao contrato.

Tornar-se pertinente

— To become relevant due to new circumstances.

Com a crise, este assunto tornou-se pertinente.

Fazer-se pertinente

— To make oneself or something relevant.

O debate faz-se pertinente no momento atual.

Nada pertinente

— Not relevant at all.

O que você disse não foi nada pertinente.

Often Confused With

pertinente vs impertinente

Can mean 'irrelevant' but often means 'rude'. Don't use it for 'polite' (pertinente is NOT the word for polite).

pertinente vs importante

Something can be important but not pertinent to the current specific topic.

pertinente vs relevante

Very close, but 'relevante' is broader, whereas 'pertinente' is more about the 'fit'.

Idioms & Expressions

"Pôr o dedo na ferida"

— To touch on a sensitive but relevant point. While not using the word 'pertinente', it describes a 'pertinent' action.

O seu comentário pertinente pôs o dedo na ferida.

informal

"Ir direto ao ponto"

— To be direct and relevant without wasting time.

Ele foi pertinente e foi direto ao ponto.

neutral

"Chover no molhado"

— To say something that is no longer 'pertinente' because everyone already knows it.

Dizer isso agora é chover no molhado, não é pertinente.

informal

"Vir a calhar"

— To be timely and relevant (opportune).

Essa sua ideia pertinente veio a calhar.

neutral

"Não ter nada a ver"

— To be completely irrelevant (the opposite of pertinente).

Isso não tem nada a ver com o que falamos.

informal

"Acertar na mosca"

— To be perfectly relevant or correct.

Sua observação pertinente acertou na mosca.

informal

"Falar a mesma língua"

— To share relevant viewpoints.

Estamos falando a mesma língua, isso é pertinente.

neutral

"Bater na mesma tecla"

— To repeat something, often because it remains 'pertinente'.

Vou bater na mesma tecla: o foco é pertinente.

informal

"Dar pano para mangas"

— Something that provides a lot of relevant material for discussion.

Esse tema pertinente ainda vai dar pano para mangas.

informal

"Matar a charada"

— To solve a problem with a 'pertinent' insight.

Com esse dado pertinente, você matou a charada.

informal

Easily Confused

pertinente vs Pertinente

Cognate confusion with 'Pertinent'.

In Portuguese, it is used more frequently in everyday professional life than in English.

Seu comentário foi pertinente.

pertinente vs Impertinente

Double meaning.

In English, it's almost always 'rude'. In Portuguese, it's often just 'irrelevant'.

Ele foi impertinente com o professor (Rude).

pertinente vs Pertença

Shared root.

Pertença is a noun meaning 'belonging' or 'possession'.

Este objeto é uma pertença da família.

pertinente vs Pretendente

Sounds similar.

Pretendente means 'suitor' or 'candidate', nothing to do with relevance.

Ele é um pretendente ao cargo.

pertinente vs Penitente

Rhyme/Visual similarity.

Penitente means someone who is repenting for a sin.

O pecador agiu como um penitente.

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] é pertinente.

O livro é pertinente.

[Noun] é pertinente a [Noun].

A dica é pertinente ao jogo.

É pertinente [Verb in Infinitive].

É pertinente avisar o chefe.

É pertinente que [Subject] [Verb in Subjunctive].

É pertinente que eles saibam a verdade.

A pertinência de [Noun] é [Adjective].

A pertinência do estudo é clara.

Pertinente se torna [Noun] quando [Clause].

Pertinente se torna o debate quando há dados.

Não considero [Noun] pertinente.

Não considero essa prova pertinente.

Muito pertinente!

Sua pergunta? Muito pertinente!

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Common in professional and academic settings; rare in casual street slang.

Common Mistakes

Using 'pertinenta' for feminine nouns. → Uma observação pertinente.
Adjectives ending in 'e' in Portuguese are usually gender-neutral. Using 'pertinenta' is a common error for beginners.
Forgetting the plural 's'. → Estes dados são pertinentes.
Even though the gender doesn't change, the number must always agree with the noun.
Missing the 'crase' (accent) in 'pertinente à'. → Pertinente à situação.
If the following word is feminine and requires an article, you must use the 'crase'.
Using 'pertinente' to mean 'polite'. → Ele foi muito educado.
Learners sometimes think 'pertinente' is the opposite of 'impertinent' (rude) in a social sense. It's not. It only refers to logical relevance.
Pronouncing it without the final 'e' sound. → Per-ti-nen-te (4 syllables).
English speakers often drop the final vowel, making it sound like the English 'pertinent'.

Tips

Upgrade your 'Bom'

Whenever you want to say an idea or question is 'good' in a meeting, use 'pertinente'. it immediately elevates your level of Portuguese from basic to intermediate-advanced.

Gender Neutrality

Don't waste time thinking about 'pertinento' or 'pertinenta'. It's always 'pertinente'. This is a 'free pass' in Portuguese grammar, so use it often!

Academic Transitions

Start your sentences with 'É pertinente ressaltar que...' to introduce your main points in essays. It sounds much more professional than 'Eu acho que...'.

The Brazilian 'Chi'

If you are in Brazil, try saying 'per-chi-NEN-chi'. It will make you sound much more like a native and help you blend in during professional discussions.

Legal Reading

If you see 'pertinente' in a contract, pay attention! It usually defines what rules apply to that specific section. It's a key word for understanding legal logic.

Giving Feedback

If you need to give constructive criticism, start by acknowledging what was 'pertinente' before moving to the negative. It softens the blow and shows you are being fair.

Nasal Vowels

The middle syllable '-nen-' is very nasal. Practice making the sound by holding your nose; you should feel it vibrate. This is the 'heart' of the word's sound.

The 'Pertain' Link

Since 'pertinente' sounds like 'pertinent' and means 'pertaining to', always use that mental bridge. It's one of the easiest cognates to remember if you use it once or twice.

Avoid Overuse

While it's a great word, don't use it in every sentence. Mix it up with 'relevante', 'adequado', and 'oportuno' to keep your Portuguese sounding varied and natural.

Check the Opposite

If you're unsure if 'pertinente' fits, ask yourself if 'irrelevante' would be the opposite. If yes, then 'pertinente' is the correct choice for your context.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Pertinente' as 'Pertaining'. If a comment pertains to the topic, it is pertinente. Both words share the 'per-' and '-tin-' roots.

Visual Association

Imagine a puzzle piece that fits perfectly into a gap. That piece is 'pertinente' to the rest of the puzzle.

Word Web

Lógica Assunto Relevância Direto Apropriado Conexão Contexto Útil

Challenge

Try to use 'pertinente' in your next professional email or Portuguese class instead of using 'importante' or 'bom'.

Word Origin

From the Latin 'pertinens, -entis', which is the present participle of 'pertinere'.

Original meaning: The Latin 'pertinere' meant 'to reach, to extend, or to belong to'.

It is a Romance language word, directly descended from Latin, with cognates in French (pertinent), Italian (pertinente), and Spanish (pertinente).

Cultural Context

Be careful with 'impertinente'. While 'pertinente' is always positive/neutral, 'impertinente' can be a personal insult meaning 'rude'.

English speakers often use 'relevant' or 'applicable'. 'Pertinent' exists in English but is less common in speech than 'pertinente' is in Portuguese.

Podcast 'Pertinente' (Fundação Francisco Manuel dos Santos, Portugal). Legal doctrine of 'Pertinência das Provas' in Brazilian Civil Procedure. Academic guidelines for 'Revistas Científicas' (Scientific Journals) often list 'pertinência' as a criterion.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Professional Meetings

Comentário pertinente
Análise pertinente
Sugestão pertinente
Ponto pertinente

University / School

Questão pertinente
Dúvida pertinente
Exemplo pertinente
Tese pertinente

Legal / Law

Prova pertinente
Documento pertinente
Fato pertinente
Alegação pertinente

News / Media

Decisão pertinente
Crítica pertinente
Medida pertinente
Abordagem pertinente

Writing / Essays

É pertinente notar
É pertinente observar
É pertinente ressaltar
É pertinente considerar

Conversation Starters

"Você acha que esse assunto ainda é pertinente para a nossa geração?"

"Qual foi o comentário mais pertinente que você ouviu hoje na reunião?"

"Como podemos tornar as nossas aulas mais pertinentes para o mercado de trabalho?"

"Você concorda que essa nova lei é pertinente à situação atual do país?"

"Poderia dar um exemplo pertinente sobre o que acabamos de ler?"

Journal Prompts

Escreva sobre uma vez em que você deu um conselho pertinente a um amigo e como isso ajudou.

Quais são os temas mais pertinentes na política do seu país hoje em dia?

Reflita sobre a pertinência de aprender uma nova língua na era da inteligência artificial.

Descreva um livro ou filme que trouxe uma mensagem muito pertinente para a sua vida.

Como você decide se uma informação é pertinente ou irrelevante quando está pesquisando algo?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'pertinente' is an epicene adjective. This means it stays the same for both genders. For example, 'um argumento pertinente' (masculine) and 'uma ideia pertinente' (feminine). You only need to change it to 'pertinentes' for plural nouns.

Yes, it is considered a more formal word. In casual conversation with friends, you would likely say 'tem a ver' or 'faz sentido'. However, in any professional, academic, or serious setting, 'pertinente' is the standard and preferred word.

They are very similar, but 'pertinente' focuses more on the logical connection or the 'fit' within a specific context. 'Relevante' is more general and can simply mean that something is important or has a significant impact. Often, they are interchangeable.

No, 'pertinente' is always neutral or positive. However, its opposite, 'impertinente', can mean both 'irrelevant' and 'rude/disrespectful'. If you call someone 'impertinente', you are usually saying they are being annoying or impolite.

You usually use 'a' or 'para'. If you use 'a', remember that it often combines with articles: 'pertinente AO assunto' (masculine) or 'pertinente À situação' (feminine with crase). Using 'para' is simpler: 'pertinente para nós'.

Yes, it is very common in Brazil, especially in universities, law courts, and corporate offices. Brazilians pronounce the 'ti' and 'te' as 'chi', whereas in Portugal they are pronounced with a hard 't'.

The noun form is 'pertinência'. It means 'relevance' or 'the quality of being pertinent'. Example: 'A pertinência do seu comentário foi notada por todos' (The relevance of your comment was noticed by everyone).

It is rare to describe a person as 'pertinente'. Usually, we describe their actions, words, or documents. If you say a person is 'pertinente', it might sound like you are saying they 'belong' there, but it's much more natural to say 'A intervenção dele foi pertinente'.

Avoid it in very informal slang-heavy situations where you want to sound 'cool' or 'relaxed'. Using it while hanging out at a beach or a bar might make you sound like you're still at work or in a lecture.

Absolutely. It is a technical term in law. Lawyers use it to argue that a piece of evidence or a testimony should be included in a trial because it is 'pertinente ao processo' (relevant to the case).