Vocabulary and Listening: "Difference between Fit and Suit"

For more lessons, see VOCABULARY Contents
A2-B2 Level

Vocabulary
1. DRESS CODE –  rules for appropriate clothing choices
2. UNWIND (verb) – to relax
3. SUIT (noun) – formal clothes with matching jacket and pants
4. SUITABLE (adj) – appropriate
3. SUITE (noun) –  typically a larger room with multiple areas like a bedroom, living room, and sometimes a kitchen

4. FIT and SUIT 

Regarding clothes and objects, FIT and SUIT have different meanings:

Fit refers to size.
Examples:
This sweater is 5 years old, but it still fits me.
The phone fits perfectly into the case.

Suit refers to style; to look good on someone: When clothes or colors match well with a person’s style or appearance.
Examples: 
Your new hairstyle suits [=becomes] you.
That dress doesn't really suit her.

For other situations, FIT and SUIT are usually the same:

Suit or fit  - to be appropriate or right for someone or something: When something is suitable or for a person, situation, or purpose.

A. To suit someone’s needs: "This job suits/fits her because she loves working with children." (Meaning the job is appropriate for her.)

B. To match someone’s schedule. Also: “fit”, “be good for + someone” or “works for + someone”
I can schedule the meeting for tomorrow. Does that suit/fit you? [=is that convenient for you?]
Is that good for you? Does that work for you? – Yes, tomorrow suits/fits me. (Tomorrow is good for me. No, tomorrow doesn't work for me.)

C. To suit a situation [pour s'adapter à une situation]

The casual dress code suits this event (Meaning the casual dress code is appropriate for the event.)

She gave a serious speech that suited the occasion.

Guide Questions
1. What does the speaker say about his/her clothes?
2. What is challenging to the speaker?
3. What kinds of clothes does he/she want?
4. What does he/she say about meetings?
5. What does he/she do after work?
6. What is important to the speaker?

American accent

British accent

TRANSCRIPT

My weight has remained the same so most of my clothes still fit me. However, it’s always a challenge to find something that will suit both the office dress code and my comfort. I want clothes that look professional but also suit my personal style. For important meetings, I wear a formal suit that suits/fits the occasion perfectly. I make sure to choose something suitable for the weather as well. After work, I go to the hotel for a business trip, where I stay in a comfortable suite. It’s important to find a space that suits/fits my needs, with a desk and a relaxing area to unwind. With a little planning, I can always make everything fit into my schedule. (120 words)