The phrase "pertain to" is spelled with the letter "e" after the letter "t" and before the letters "a" and "i". The IPA transcription for this phrase is /pərˈteɪn tuː/. The "e" serves as a schwa sound, which is commonly used in English to represent an unstressed and neutral vowel. This helps to create a smooth transition between the "r" and "t" sounds and create an easy-to-pronounce, fluid phrase. "Pertain to" means to be related, relevant or applicable to something.
The phrase "pertain to" is a phrasal verb that is used to express a connection or relevance between two things. It conveys the idea that something is related to, applicable to, or associated with a particular subject, topic, or context.
When something "pertains to" a certain matter, it means it is directly linked or relevant to it. It implies that the subject being discussed or considered has a direct bearing on the situation at hand, and is therefore significant or applicable. This phrase is commonly employed in various fields such as law, medicine, academia, and everyday conversations.
To illustrate, in a legal context, a clause in a contract may "pertain to" the rights and responsibilities of the parties involved. In the medical field, a symptom may "pertain to" a specific illness or condition, indicating a direct connection. Similarly, in a research paper, a source or citation may "pertain to" the main thesis of the study, providing supporting evidence or relevant information.
The phrase "pertain to" embodies the idea of correspondence or relevance, highlighting the relationship and significance of one thing to another. It is used to emphasize the direct connection, applicability, or pertinence of a subject within a specific context or discussion.
The word pertain is derived from the Old French word partenir which means to belong or to be a part of. It comes from the Latin word pertinere which has a similar meaning of to stretch out or to reach. This Latin word is a combination of per meaning through and tenere meaning to hold.
Over time, pertain evolved in English to mean to relate or to be relevant to. When combined with the preposition to, as in pertain to, it forms a phrasal verb which means to be connected or associated with or to be in relation to.