may not pertain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may not pertain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something might not be relevant or applicable to a particular situation or context. Example: "The information provided in this report may not pertain to the current project we are working on."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Please keep in mind that some of the advice given here may or may not pertain to your specific situation.

Science Magazine

It may not pertain to an object in the sense of a good but does concern data that can be delineated and individualized as personal asset or interest.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

Please keep in mind that this advice may not pertain to your current situation at work or school, but certainly at some point in your career you may find it useful.

Science Magazine

Cuba is set to get broadband internet access in the year 2010 and you can sure as hell bet that CrunchGear will more than happy to provide Cubans everywhere with half-cocked news and reviews that may or may not pertain to the world of technology.

TechCrunch

First, the evidence from any given clinical trial, however methodologically robust, may or may not pertain to any given patient.

Huffington Post

Each element of this business model may not pertain to every large-scale development, but implementing certain components of the model can still be valuable, making such developments attractive to investors, developers, and tenants alike--increasing the likelihood that better buildings and communities scale now, and quickly.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Though the line may not refer to Matthew 16:18 despite the precise wording, it does pertain to Matthew 7 24-25, the story of a wise man who builds his house upon a rock.

Huffington Post

However, the lack of efficacy observed for HSV-2 suppression to reduce HIV-1 acquisition may not necessarily pertain to this trial of HSV-2 suppression to reduce HIV-1 transmission, as the biologic mechanisms for the two types of interactions differ.

Plosone

But the new guidelines do not pertain to existing contracts, and may not affect future ones either.

The New York Times

However, as shown by Cooper (1984), these teeth do not pertain to Vulcanodon but to a theropod dinosaur that may have scavenged on the Vulcanodon carcass.

Wikipedia

In reply to the chemical criticisms, Wrinch suggested that the model compounds and simple bimolecular reactions studied need not pertain to the cyclol model, and that steric hindrance may have prevented the surface hydroxyl groups from reacting.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may not pertain", ensure the context clearly indicates what the phrase refers to. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the subject that might not be relevant.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "may not pertain" can sound overly formal in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "might not apply" or "may not be relevant" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may not pertain" functions as a modal verb phrase expressing a possibility of irrelevance or inapplicability. The modal verb "may" indicates uncertainty, while "not pertain" negates the relevance or direct connection. This construction is frequently used to qualify statements, acknowledging that they might not be universally true or applicable as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

38%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "may not pertain" is a useful tool for expressing potential irrelevance or inapplicability, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Grammatically correct and commonly used across various domains, particularly in science and news, it serves to qualify statements and avoid overgeneralizations. While versatile, it's important to consider the context and audience when using this phrase, opting for simpler alternatives in more informal settings. By understanding its nuances and appropriate usage, writers can effectively communicate potential limitations and set realistic expectations. Remember to avoid overuse and consider more direct phrasing for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might not apply

Replaces "pertain" with the more common verb "apply", slightly changing the formality.

may not be relevant

Substitutes "pertain" with "be relevant", focusing on the concept of relevance.

might not be applicable

Uses "applicable" instead of "pertain", offering a more formal tone.

may not concern

Replaces "pertain" with "concern", shifting the focus to whether something is related or important.

might not relate

Uses "relate" instead of "pertain", simplifying the language.

may not be germane

Replaces "pertain" with "be germane", offering a more sophisticated and formal tone.

might not have bearing on

Uses a longer phrase to express the idea of relevance or influence.

may not be connected to

Emphasizes the lack of a direct link or association.

might fall outside the scope of

Focuses on the boundaries of a topic or situation.

may not hold true for

Shifts the emphasis to the validity or accuracy of something in a specific context.

FAQs

What does "may not pertain" mean?

The phrase "may not pertain" means something might not be relevant, applicable, or related to a specific situation or topic.

How can I use "may not pertain" in a sentence?

You can use "may not pertain" to indicate that certain information or advice might not be applicable in every situation. For example: "This advice "may not pertain" to your specific circumstances."

What are some alternatives to "may not pertain"?

Alternatives include "might not apply", "may not be relevant", or "might not concern". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "may not pertain"?

"May not pertain" is suitable in formal or semi-formal contexts where you want to express a possibility of irrelevance or inapplicability. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.