pertain
11 synonyms and 3 antonyms for pertain, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To relate to or be relevant to something.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
be irrelevant
have no business
not concern
How to use pertain
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
pertain to
as it pertains to
Formal; common in legal and official writing ("insofar as it pertains to...").
Etymology
From Old French partenir/pertenir, from Latin pertinere ("to extend to, belong to"), from per- ("through") + tenere ("to hold").
Full origin of pertain →Frequently asked questions
What does “pertain” mean?
The word “pertain” means to relate to or be relevant to something. In plain terms, to be connected to or relevant to a particular subject.
How do you pronounce “pertain”?
“Pertain” is pronounced puh-TAYN (/pɚˈteɪn/ in IPA).
How do you use “pertain” in a sentence?
Here is “pertain” used in a sentence: “These rules pertain only to full-time employees.”
What is another word for “pertain”?
Words with a similar meaning to “pertain” include appertain, affect, bear upon, bear on, concern and impact.
What is the opposite of “pertain”?
The opposite of “pertain” — its antonyms — are be irrelevant, have no business and not concern.
What part of speech is “pertain”?
“Pertain” is a verb.
Where does the word “pertain” come from?
The word “pertain” comes from Latin. From Old French partenir/pertenir, from Latin pertinere ("to extend to, belong to"), from per- ("through") + tenere ("to hold").
How many meanings does “pertain” have?
“Pertain” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to relate to or be relevant to something.
