English Reference

Word

fit

US/ˈfɪt/

UK/fˈɪt/

Definitions

01to be the right size

A2 · Elementary

v. to be the right size or shape for someone or something.

v. to be of the correct size or shape for a particular person, space, or object. Often used intransitively or with a direct object.

“I tried on the shoes, but they didn't fit because they were too narrow.”

“The tailor ensured the jacket would fit perfectly across the shoulders, as any pulling would ruin the silhouette of the suit.”

Synonyms

02to have enough space

A2 · Elementary

v. to have enough space for something to go inside.

v. to have sufficient capacity or space to contain something.

“We can't fit any more people in the car; it's already full.”

“The gallery was so crowded that we could barely fit through the door to see the main exhibit.”

Synonyms

03healthy and strong

A2 · Elementary

adj. healthy and strong, especially because you exercise regularly.

adj. physically sound and healthy; possessing the cardiovascular endurance or strength required for physical activity.

“He runs every morning to stay fit and active.”

“The coach demanded a high level of conditioning, insisting that only the most fit players would start in the championship match.”

Antonyms

04suitable

B1 · Intermediate

adj. right or appropriate for a particular purpose or situation.

adj. appropriate or suitable for a specific purpose, role, or occasion.

“The water in the old well is not fit to drink.”

“After the scandal, many critics argued that the minister was no longer fit for public office.”

05attractive

C1 · Advanced British English · Slang · Informal

adj. very attractive or good-looking.

adj. physically or sexually attractive. This sense is highly informal and specific to certain dialects.

“He thinks the new girl in his class is really fit.”

“The teenagers spent the afternoon gossiping about which celebrities they thought were fit.”

Teaching tip

This is very common in British youth slang but can sound out of place or overly casual when used by older learners.

Synonyms

attractivehotgood-looking

Antonyms

06medical seizure

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Medicine

n. a sudden medical problem where the body shakes or the person loses consciousness.

n. a sudden attack of a disease, especially one involving convulsions or loss of consciousness, such as an epileptic seizure.

“The patient suffered a fit and had to be rushed to the hospital.”

“The neurologist explained that the patient's fits were a symptom of a larger underlying condition that required daily medication.”

Synonyms

seizureconvulsionattack

07outburst of emotion

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun

n. a sudden, short period of a strong emotion or activity.

n. a sudden, brief, and often uncontrollable outburst of emotion or physical activity.

“The toddler had a crying fit because he didn't want to leave the park.”

“The audience was overcome by a fit of laughter when the actor accidentally tripped over his own cape.”

08clothing outfit

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Slang · Informal

n. a set of clothes worn together; an outfit.

n. a complete set of clothes; a shortened form of 'outfit' used in casual contexts.

“That's a nice fit you're wearing today.”

“She posted a photo of her new fit on social media before heading out to the party.”

Teaching tip

This is a modern slang term popular on social media; it is a shortening of 'outfit'.

Synonyms

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “fit” in context.

01. data fit 02. fit data 03. improve fit 04. model fit

Word family

ADJECTIVE

Related words

Idioms

Domains

AdvertisingAviationMedicineStatistics

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Very common
Level
A2 · ElementaryOxford
Updated

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English Reference