Suitable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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suitable

[หˆsuหtษ™bษ™l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

for a particular purpose

Right or appropriate for a particular person, purpose, or situation.

Synonyms

appropriate, apt, fitting, proper, relevant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
suitable

Used when something is right or acceptable for a particular purpose or situation.

  • She found a suitable dress for the wedding
  • This movie is not suitable for children
appropriate

Used when something is suitable or proper in a given situation, often in a formal or official context.

  • It's important to wear appropriate clothing to the interview
  • He made an appropriate response to the question
fitting

Used when something is suitable and matches well with the circumstances or context, with an emphasis on harmony or alignment.

  • It was a fitting end to a remarkable career
  • The music was fitting for the romantic scene
proper

Used to describe what is correct, acceptable, and conforms to rules or standards. Often has a formal tone.

  • Please maintain proper behavior during the event
  • She used the proper technique to solve the problem
apt

Used when something is particularly fitting or relevant in a specific circumstance, often implying sharpness or cleverness.

  • Her comment was apt for the occasion
  • He has an apt name as he is always cheerful
relevant

Used when something is closely connected or applicable to the matter at hand.

  • Please provide all relevant information in your report
  • The discussion was not relevant to the main topic

Examples of usage

  • This is the most suitable room for the meeting.
  • She found a suitable candidate for the job.
Context #2 | Adjective

comfortable or convenient

Comfortable or convenient for a particular activity or purpose.

Synonyms

adequate, appropriate, comfortable, convenient, satisfactory.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
suitable

Use 'suitable' when describing something that matches a specific purpose or requirement. It emphasizes aptness or fitness for a particular situation.

  • This dress is suitable for a wedding.
  • Is this time suitable for you?
comfortable

Use 'comfortable' when referring to physical or emotional ease and a lack of discomfort. It emphasizes a sense of relaxation and well-being.

  • These shoes are very comfortable for walking.
  • He felt comfortable sharing his thoughts with her.
convenient

Use 'convenient' to describe something that adds ease or saves time and effort. It focuses on being practical and well-suited to one's needs or schedule.

  • The new store hours are very convenient.
  • Itโ€™s convenient to have a supermarket nearby.
appropriate

Use 'appropriate' for situations where something is fitting or proper according to the norms or context. It stresses correctness and suitability in social or practical contexts.

  • It's important to wear appropriate clothing for the job interview.
  • Her response was appropriate under the circumstances.
adequate

Use 'adequate' to talk about something that meets a minimum standard or requirement. It implies sufficiency, but not necessarily excellence.

  • The food supply is adequate for the week.
  • His performance was adequate, though not outstanding.
satisfactory

Use 'satisfactory' to indicate that something is good enough to meet a need or expectation but with a neutral or slightly negative connotation, meaning it is not exceptional.

  • The service was satisfactory, but not exceptional.
  • Her grades are satisfactory this semester.

Examples of usage

  • These shoes are very suitable for hiking.
  • The hotel offered suitable accommodation for our needs.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies show that making suitable choices can lead to increased satisfaction in personal and professional life.
  • The concept of suitability is often linked to personal values and self-concept, influencing decision-making.
  • When individuals find suitable solutions, they report lower levels of anxiety and greater well-being.

Business

  • In hiring, a candidateโ€™s suitability is often assessed through interviews and experience matching the job requirements.
  • Brand suitability is crucial in marketing; brands strive to align their messages with target audiences for effective engagement.
  • Choosing suitable partnerships is essential for businesses to enhance productivity and innovate effectively.

Education

  • Educators often seek suitable learning materials to match different learning styles and needs of students.
  • Curriculum development focuses on ensuring that content is suitable for age, skill level, and interest of the learners.
  • Assessments must be suitable to accurately measure student understanding and competency in various subjects.

Cultural Significance

  • In various cultures, the notion of suitability can be seen in traditional practices like matchmaking or family expectations.
  • Appropriate attire for cultural events illustrates the importance of suitability in social contexts.
  • Art exhibits often consider audience suitability when curating works to ensure they resonate with viewers.

Origin of 'suitable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'suitare', which means to suit or fit.
  • It first appeared in English in the late 15th century, relating closely to clothing and fit.
  • Over time, its meaning has expanded beyond clothing to include anything that fits or serves a purpose.

The word 'suitable' originated from the Old French word 'suitable' and the Latin word 'suitabilis', both meaning 'suitable' or 'fitting'. The term has been in use since the 15th century and has evolved to represent something appropriate or fitting for a particular purpose or situation.


See also: suit, suitability, suitably, suite, suitor, unsuitability, unsuitable, unsuitably, unsuited.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,417, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.