Unlocking Pertinent: A Complete List of Crossword Solutions
The thrill of a crossword puzzle often culminates in that satisfying "aha!" moment when a challenging clue finally clicks. Among these, the "Pertinent Crossword Clue" frequently appears, requiring solvers to delve into the nuances of meaning for "relevant," "appropriate," and "to the point." Whether you're a seasoned cruciverbalist or a budding enthusiast, understanding the full spectrum of possible answers for such a crucial term can significantly enhance your solving prowess. This comprehensive guide aims to illuminate every conceivable solution, offering insights, strategies, and definitions to help you conquer your next puzzle.
Decoding "Pertinent": What Does It Truly Mean?
At its core, "pertinent" refers to something that has a direct and logical connection to the matter at hand. It's not just "related"; it's specifically relevant, suitable, and appropriate for a particular context. Think of a piece of advice that is perfectly timed and useful, or a fact that directly supports an argument. That's pertinent.
The adjective "pertinent" signifies:
- Having a direct bearing on or connection with the subject or issue at hand.
- Being of striking appropriateness and relevance.
- Having precise or logical relevance to the matter at hand.
Grasping this precise definition is the first step in identifying the correct crossword solution. While many words might seem related, only those that strongly convey this sense of direct and fitting relevance will be truly "pertinent" answers.
The Ultimate List of "Pertinent" Crossword Solutions by Length
Crossword setters love to challenge solvers with a variety of word lengths for the same concept. For the "Pertinent Crossword Clue," there's a surprisingly extensive list of potential answers, ranging from short, punchy terms to longer, more descriptive phrases. The key to success often lies in knowing the length of the required answer before diving into the synonyms.
Common Shorter Answers (3-7 Letters)
These concise solutions are frequent players in daily crosswords, often requiring you to be equally concise in your thinking.
- 3 Letters:
- APT: Precisely suitable or appropriate in the circumstances.
- DUE: Appropriate; suitable (e.g., "due respect").
- PAT: Superficially ready, fluent, or apposite.
- 4 Letters:
- FIT: Suitable or appropriate for a particular occasion or purpose.
- GLIB: (Contextual) While often negative (superficial), in rare cases, a 'glib' remark might be quickly pertinent.
- 5 Letters:
- ADREM: To the point; pertinent.
- HAPPY: (Contextual) Meaning apt or felicitous, as in a 'happy choice' or 'happy turn of phrase.'
- 6 Letters:
- PRONE: (Less common) Sometimes used in the sense of 'apt' or 'inclined.'
- COMING: (Less common) In the sense of 'approaching' or 'on the way,' could refer to a pertinent event.
- LIKELY: Probable or pertinent to an outcome.
- 7 Letters:
- APROPOS: Very appropriate to a particular situation.
- AT HAND: Imminent or available when needed, implying relevance.
- FITTING: Appropriate or suitable.
- GERMANE: Relevant to a subject under consideration.
- RELATED: Connected; having a bearing on.
Mid-Length & Key Solutions (8-9 Letters)
This range often holds some of the most frequently sought answers for "Pertinent Crossword Clue," with one standing out prominently.
- 8 Letters:
- IMMINENT: About to happen, therefore pertinent to current discussion.
- RELATIVE: Considered in relation or in proportion to something else, making it pertinent.
- RELEVANT: Closely connected or appropriate to the matter at hand. This is arguably the most common and direct 8-letter answer. In fact, it was the solution for "Pertinent" in a recent Seattle Times New Crossword. If you're looking for the definitive 8-letter answer, explore more about RELEVANT: The Key 8-Letter Pertinent Crossword Answer.
- SUITABLE: Appropriate for a particular purpose or occasion.
- 9 Letters:
- APPOSITE: Apt in the circumstances or in relation to something.
- BEFITTING: Appropriate to the occasion or purpose.
- CONNECTED: Brought into contact with something, hence relevant.
- DEPENDENT: Contingent on something else, making it pertinent.
- OPPORTUNE: Well-chosen or particularly favorable or appropriate.
- PERSONAL: (Contextual) Can be pertinent if the context refers to personal relevance.
Longer & More Nuanced Answers (10+ Letters)
These answers often appear when the crossword grid has larger spaces to fill or when the clue itself hints at a more complex relationship.
- 10 Letters:
- APPLICABLE: Relevant or appropriate.
- ASSOCIATED: Connected with something else.
- COMPARABLE: Able to be likened to another; pertinent for comparison.
- CONVENIENT: Fitting in well with a person's needs, activities, or plans; pertinent for ease.
- FELICITOUS: Well-chosen or apposite; apt.
- SEASONABLE: Appropriate for the time of year or season; timely and pertinent.
- TOTHEPOINT: Relevant; pertinent.
- 11 Letters:
- APPROACHING: Coming nearer in time or distance, therefore pertinent to anticipation.
- APPROPRIATE: Suitable or proper in the circumstances.
- APPURTENANT: Belonging as a rightful accompaniment; pertinent to an association.
- COMPARATIVE: Pertaining to or involving comparison.
- 12 Letters:
- INTERRELATED: Mutually related or connected, making elements pertinent to each other.
- 13 Letters:
- CORRESPONDENT: Similar in character or function; pertinent in comparison.
- PROPORTIONATE: Corresponding in size or amount to something else; pertinent for balance.
Contextual or Less Direct Solutions
Crossword setters sometimes use "pertinent" in a broader sense, leading to answers that aren't direct synonyms but are pertinent in a specific context.
- ORDINARY: While 'pertinent' often implies something significant, an 'ordinary' observation could be pertinent if it highlights a common, relevant truth often overlooked.
- POSSIBLE / PRESUMED / PROBABLE / PROMISING / PRESUMABLE / PREVAILING / PREDICTABLE: These terms can be pertinent if the clue refers to something relevant to a potential outcome or an anticipated situation. For instance, if discussing a future event, a 'probable' scenario is highly pertinent.
For an even deeper dive into the vast array of words associated with this clue, make sure to visit our comprehensive resource:
Pertinent Crossword Clue: Find All Answers & Synonyms.
Strategies for Tackling the "Pertinent Crossword Clue"
Knowing a list of answers is one thing; effectively applying them is another. Here are some strategies to help you when faced with the "Pertinent Crossword Clue":
1.
Always Check the Length First: This is paramount. The number of letters is your most valuable guide. Filter your mental list of synonyms by length immediately.
2.
Consider the Puzzle's Theme and Other Clues: Sometimes, the theme of the puzzle or the surrounding answers can hint at a more formal (e.g.,
GERMANE,
APROPOS) or informal (e.g.,
TO THE POINT) synonym for "pertinent."
3.
Look for Nuance: Is the clue asking for something generally relevant, or something specifically appropriate? "Relevant" is broad, while "apposite" or "felicitous" imply a more precise, well-chosen appropriateness.
4.
Recognize Common Appearances: "Pertinent" frequently appears in major puzzles like the Sydney Morning Herald, The Times, The Guardian, The New York Times, and others. Repeated exposure to common answers like
RELEVANT will make them instinctual.
5.
Work with Intersecting Letters: If you have a few letters already filled in from intersecting clues, use them to narrow down the possibilities from your list.
6.
Think About Parts of Speech: While "pertinent" is an adjective, some crossword setters might clue it indirectly, so always be mindful of how the clue functions in the sentence.
Beyond the Obvious: Why Some "Pertinent" Solutions Seem Unexpected
One of the fascinating aspects of crosswords is the setter's ability to stretch definitions or use words in less common ways. For a clue like "pertinent," this is particularly true for entries like "GLIB" or "HAPPY."
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GLIB: While generally carrying a negative connotation of superficial fluency, a 'glib' comment can, in certain specific contexts (especially in cryptic crosswords), be seen as pertinent if it's readily or artfully appropriate on the surface, even if lacking depth. It's a rare and tricky connection.
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HAPPY: In older English or specific literary contexts, "happy" can mean "apt" or "felicitous." A "happy turn of phrase" is one that is perfectly chosen and pertinent to the situation. It's less about joy and more about perfect suitability.
Understanding these less direct connections requires a flexible mind and an appreciation for the subtle layers of language that crossword setters exploit. It's a reminder that not all synonyms are created equal, and context is always king.
Conclusion
Solving the "Pertinent Crossword Clue" can range from a straightforward fill-in-the-blank with "RELEVANT" to a deep dive into nuanced synonyms like "APPOSITE" or "GERMANE." By arming yourself with this comprehensive list of solutions, understanding the subtle meanings of "pertinent," and employing smart crossword-solving strategies, you're well on your way to mastering this common and often challenging clue. Keep this guide handy, and the next time you encounter "Pertinent," you'll have all the right answers at your fingertips. Happy solving!