pertained to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pertained to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is related to or connected with a particular subject or topic. Example: "The research findings pertained to the effects of climate change on marine life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"They wanted something that pertained to them," he said, "some comfort that pertained to their situations".

The New York Times

Three items pertained to self-efficacy beliefs regarding weight and physical activity management; one item pertained to social support in physical activity and two items pertained to outcome expectancies regarding weight and physical activity management.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Such observations pertained to the golf, too.

The New York Times

Kennedy's questions pertained to the Commerce clause.

The Guardian

But I didn't feel this discussion really pertained to me.

The New York Times

The first 10 questions pertained to the photograph.

The New York Times

It pertained to the lower house, the Chamber of Deputies.

The New York Times

Both pertained to a successor to Trailblazer, code-named Turbulence.

The New Yorker

The issues pertained to execution, which are correctable.

The New York Times

However, the result also pertained to each individual measurement.

The Economist

Some had to do with the Iran debate, but some pertained to Al Qaeda and Iraq.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pertained to" when you want to clearly indicate that information, discussions, or issues are directly connected or relevant to a specific subject or area. This helps ensure clarity and precision in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "pertained to" in overly general or vague situations where the connection isn't clear or direct. Instead, opt for simpler terms like "related to" or "about" to maintain clarity and avoid unnecessary formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pertained to" functions as a verb phrase followed by a preposition, indicating a relationship, relevance, or connection to a specific subject or topic. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase suggests that something directly relates to or concerns something else.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

37%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "pertained to" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a relationship, relevance, or connection between subjects. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts. As demonstrated by numerous examples from news, scientific publications, and other sources, the phrase is versatile and applicable in formal and neutral registers. While "related to" and other alternatives can sometimes be used interchangeably, "pertained to" often implies a more direct and specific connection. When using this phrase, it's best to ensure the context is clear to avoid vagueness and maintain precision in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

related to

Direct synonym focusing on a general connection.

concerned with

Emphasizes the subject matter being addressed or affected.

relevant to

Highlights the importance and applicability of something to a specific situation.

applied to

Focuses on the act of something being used or directed towards a specific purpose.

connected with

Highlights a direct link or association.

associated with

Implies a less direct but still significant relationship.

bore upon

More formal, suggesting a direct and significant impact.

had to do with

Informal alternative indicating a connection or involvement.

referred to

Specifically indicates a direct reference or mention.

was applicable to

Highlights the relevance and suitability of something in a certain situation.

FAQs

How do I use "pertained to" in a sentence?

Use "pertained to" to indicate a direct relationship or relevance between something and a specific topic. For example, "The questions "pertained to" the new policy" means the questions were specifically about that policy.

What can I say instead of "pertained to"?

You can use alternatives like "related to", "concerned with", or "relevant to" depending on the context. Each alternative emphasizes a slightly different aspect of the connection.

Which is correct, "pertained to" or "pertained with"?

"Pertained to" is the correct phrasing. "Pertained with" is grammatically incorrect. "Pertained to" indicates a relationship or relevance, while "pertained with" does not have a recognized meaning.

What's the difference between "pertained to" and "applied to"?

"Pertained to" indicates a relationship or relevance to a topic, while "applied to" suggests that something is being used or directed toward a specific purpose. For instance, rules applied to specific cases, and discussions "pertained to" broad themes.