suitable
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈuːtəbəl/
US
- /ˈsutəbəl/
Description
- fitting
- appropriate
- right
- proper
- well-matched
Something that is suitable fits the purpose or situation well, like wearing a warm coat in winter or choosing polite language when speaking to your boss. It means something is right for what you need. If a job requires strong communication skills, a candidate with those skills would be considered suitable. A sunny beach is not very suitable for building an igloo!
The word suggests a good match, not necessarily exciting or ideal, but reliably appropriate. You might say a hotel room is "suitable" if it is clean and comfortable, even if it is not fancy. Think of it as the Goldilocks idea: not too much, not too little, just right.
The word suitable describes something that is appropriate or fitting for a particular purpose, person, occasion, or situation. It implies a good match between what is available and what is needed, a sense of being "just right." For example, "This room isn't suitable for a large meeting" suggests the space is too small. Or, "A wetsuit is suitable attire for surfing" means it is the correct clothing to wear for that specific activity.
Suitable often appears when discussing qualifications or characteristics. A job description might list "suitable candidates," referring to those who possess the necessary skills and experience. Similarly, you might say a particular book is "suitable for young readers," meaning its content is age-appropriate and safe.
It is important to note that suitable does not necessarily mean ideal or perfect. Something can be suitable without being exceptional; it simply means it meets the requirements of the situation. A plain, functional chair might be perfectly suitable for a temporary seating arrangement, even if you wouldn't choose it as a permanent piece for your living room.
The concept of suitability is often subjective and depends heavily on context. What is suitable in one culture or setting may not be in another. Therefore, when considering whether something is suitable, always think about the specific needs, rules, and expectations involved.
Examples
- 1
Room size
We need a room that's suitable for about twenty people.
- 2
Footwear
These shoes are fine for walking, but they're not suitable for running.
- 3
Age rating
The film is not suitable for young children.
- 4
Wedding clothes
She was looking for something suitable to wear to the wedding.
Phrase
something suitable to wear
clothes that are right for a particular occasion
- 5
Job fit
This job would be more suitable for someone with sales experience.
- 6
Meeting time
Friday morning would be suitable for a quick meeting.
- 7
Alternative option
If this option isn't suitable, we can try a different approach.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- suitableadjective