pertain

American  

[per-teyn] / pərˈteɪn /

verb (used without object)

1. to have reference or relation; relate.

   documents pertaining to the lawsuit.

2. to belong or be connected as a part, adjunct, possession, or attribute.

3. to belong properly or fittingly; be appropriate.

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pertain British  

/ pəˈteɪn /

verb

1. to have reference, relation, or relevance

   issues pertaining to women

2. to be appropriate

   the product pertains to real user needs

3. to belong (to) or be a part (of); be an adjunct, attribute, or accessory (of)

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Etymology

Origin of pertain

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English pertenen, partenen, perteinen, from Middle French partein-, stem of partenir, from Latin pertinēre “to be applicable,” literally, “to hold through, reach,” equivalent to per- per- + -tinēre, combining form of tenēre “to hold”

Example Sentences

Budget reconciliation is governed by strict rules, enforced by a strict parliamentarian, requiring that reconciliation items pertain to taxes and spending.

From Slate • Mar. 24, 2026

Yet the most haunting contested claim of Moy’s life did not pertain to music.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

Over the last several years, McInerney and colleagues have explored the implications of that study as they pertain to vibration isolation.

From Science Daily • Oct. 18, 2025

After or before you’ve made the call for help, gather these important documents that pertain to the detained family member:

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 27, 2025

Rather, the lessons this life has planted in my heart pertain more to caring than to crops, more to Golden Rule than gold, more to the proper choice than to the popular choice.

From "Hattie Big Sky" by Kirby Larson

Related Words

• apply
• refer
• relate