Suitability for people and purposes

The idea

Suitable means right for a person, purpose or situation. Use suitable for before a noun or an activity in the -ing form.

Examples

• These shoes are suitable for hiking.
• We found a suitable room for the meeting.
• This book is suitable for young readers.
• Is there a suitable place to park?
• The weather is not suitable for sailing.
• We chose a suitable date for the trip.

Watch out

Suitable does not mean perfect in every situation; suitability depends on the purpose.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the correct answer. The room meets our needs; it is ___. (suitable / unsuitable)

   Show answer or example answer

   suitable

   Suitable fits a room that meets the group’s needs.

2. Choose the correct answer. This coat is suitable ___ skiing. (for / at)

   Show answer or example answer

   for

   For introduces the activity.

3. Choose the correct answer. Must a suitable tool work for every purpose? (yes / no)

   Show answer or example answer

   no

   No is correct: a suitable object need not suit every purpose.

Use it today

Name something suitable for a rainy day and explain why.