Understanding the Word "Pertain"
Have you ever been in a meeting where someone started talking about something completely off-topic? You might have wanted to tell them, "That doesn't pertain to our discussion." When we use the word pertain, we are essentially saying that something is relevant, applicable, or belongs to the subject at hand. It is a formal but very useful verb that helps us keep conversations and arguments focused on what actually matters.
Meanings and Usage
At its simplest, pertain means "to be relevant to." If something pertains to a situation, it has a clear connection to it. Think of a puzzle: every piece that fits the picture pertains to the puzzle, while a stray button from your shirt certainly does not.
There are two primary ways to understand this word:
- Relevance: To be connected or related to a specific topic or subject.
- Attribute: To be a part of, or belong to, something larger.
Consider these examples:
- "The new safety regulations pertain to all employees working in the factory."
- "I have several questions that pertain to the history of this building."
- "His rude behavior pertains to his long-standing frustration with the management."
Grammar Patterns
The verb pertain is almost always followed by the preposition "to." You rarely see it standing alone without describing what it is connected to. Another important grammatical rule involves how it conjugates with helper verbs.
When you use pertain in the third-person singular (he, she, it), it takes an "s":
- "This rule pertains to you."
However, when you add a helper verb (such as does or did), the "s" disappears from the main verb:
- "That simply does not pertain to the current investigation."
Common Mistakes
One common mistake learners make is using pertain interchangeably with "concern" or "relate." While they are synonyms, they are not always interchangeable in every sentence structure. For instance, you would say "This relates to me," but you must remember that pertain requires the "to" to be grammatically complete.
Another error is confusing pertain with "pertaining." While "pertaining to" is a common prepositional phrase used to introduce a topic (e.g., "Pertaining to your request, here are the files"), some writers overuse it, making their sentences sound overly formal or cluttered. Use it sparingly to maintain clarity.
FAQ
Is "pertain" a formal word?
Yes, pertain is considered formal. You are more likely to hear it in a courtroom, a business meeting, or an academic lecture than in casual conversation with friends. In casual settings, you might prefer "to have to do with" or "to be about."
Can I use "pertain" without the word "to"?
No. In standard English, the verb pertain almost always requires the preposition "to" to connect it to the object. You should avoid saying "That pertains the issue." Always include the "to."
Is "pertain" an adjective?
No, pertain is a verb. If you want an adjective that means the same thing, you should use "pertinent." For example: "That is a pertinent question."
Conclusion
Mastering the word pertain will add a layer of precision to your English vocabulary. Whether you are writing a formal report or participating in a serious debate, knowing how to explain what is and isn't relevant is a valuable skill. Remember: if it matters to the topic, it pertains to it. Keep practicing, and soon this word will become a natural part of your professional language toolkit.