What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
befitting
Example
Wearing a formal suit is befitting for a job interview. [befitting: adjective]
Example
Her elegant speech was befitting of her role as the ambassador. [befitting: gerund or present participle]
appropriate
Example
It is not appropriate to wear jeans to a formal event. [appropriate: adjective]
Example
He decided to appropriate some funds for the project. [appropriate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Appropriate is more commonly used than befitting in everyday language. Appropriate is a versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while befitting is less common and may be found in more elevated or literary contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between befitting and appropriate?
While befitting is typically associated with a slightly more formal tone, appropriate is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
