Master confusing words with ease
Pertinence vs. Impertinence
Pertinence
Examples:
The pertinence of her advice was evident immediately.His question bore no pertinence to the current topic.The jury debated the pertinence of the new evidence.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Impertinence
/ɪmˈpɜːrtnəns/Examples:
His impertinence often left others dumbfounded.The child's impertinence rivaled that of a seasoned politician.A bold display of impertinence shocked the entire committee.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Ways to tell them apart:
- Pertinence and impertinence can be distinguished by their prefixes: pert- suggests appropriateness, while im- indicates negation or opposition.
- Remember that pertinent relates to being relevant or connected to the topic at hand.
- Impertinent carries a connotation of rudeness because it denotes a lack of appropriateness or respect.
- If something is pertinent, it is fitting and suitable within the context.
- Impertinence often implies a disregard for social norms or the bounds of propriety.
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