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unsuitable

B2
adjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /ʌnsˈuːtəbəl/

US

  • /ənˈsutəbəl/

Description

Imagine trying to wear winter boots to the beach - they'd be unsuitable! It means something is not right for a particular person, situation, or purpose. A loud party would be unsuitable for someone trying to study, and a delicate silk dress would be unsuitable for hiking in the woods. Sometimes it also means not good enough for what is needed; an applicant with little experience might be seen as unsuitable for a demanding job. It is all about a mismatch - something just does not quite fit.

Examples

  1. 1

    Outdoor gear

    These shoes are unsuitable for hiking in wet weather.

  2. 2

    Children

    The film was considered unsuitable for young children.

  3. 3

    Job selection

    After the interview, they decided he was unsuitable for the role.

  4. 4

    Housing

    The apartment was clean, but it was unsuitable for a family of five.

  5. 5

    Long-term planning

    This quick fix might help today, but it is unsuitable as a long-term solution.

See also

adjectivenot right or fitting for a purpose, person, or situation

Similar

Shades of meaning

Contrast

Used with (collocations)

  • unsuitable for children
  • unsuitable for use
  • unsuitable candidate
  • unsuitable conditions

Word family

Explore

  • eligibility
  • fitness for purpose

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • unsuitableadjective