pertainpertaining

Pertainingpertaining is a nonce word used to illustrate linguistic reduplication and the semantic layering surrounding the concept of relevance. Formed from pertain (to relate) and pertaining (relating to), it is not a standard entry in major dictionaries and is primarily encountered in linguistic discussions, wordplay, or experimental prose.

Etymology and form: The term arises by combining a base verb with its participle to emphasize continuity and relation. This kind of duplication is common in analyses of reduplication and in creative writing as a stylistic device. Because it is not a conventional term, its exact sense is determined by context and author intention.

Usage and interpretation: In practice, pertainpertaining may function as an adjective or a noun in playful text, signaling that something both pertains to and is pertaining to a given topic or context. Its interpretation varies with surrounding material, and its status as a nonce word means it lacks a fixed definition in standard usage. An example sentence might read: The pertainpertaining criteria assess both relevance and relation to the issue.

See also: reduplication, nonce word, linguistic play.