German word

passend

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈpasn̩t/

Meaning

  • adjectivesuitable

Example

Das ist ein passendes Geschenk für dich.

That is a suitable gift for you.

Illustration for passend (suitable)

More examples

Die Jacke ist passend für den Anlass.

The jacket is suitable for the occasion.

Core concept

A choice matches the needs, timing, and setting without seeming out of place.

Common phrases

  • passend angezogen

    suitably dressed

  • in passender Größe

    in a suitable size

  • passend für den Anlass

    suitable for the occasion

Similar words

geeignet: Fit for a particular purpose and practical to use.
angemessen: Suitable in degree and manner for the situation or people involved.

Definition in German

Geeignet oder richtig für eine bestimmte Situation, Zeit oder Person; nicht fehl am Platz.

Word origin

Passend comes from passen, with the suffix -end forming an adjective for something that fits or suits.

Usage tips

  • Passend is broad and neutral, while geeignet stresses practical suitability and angemessen stresses appropriateness to a situation.

Other meanings

  • appropriateadjective
  • fittingadjective

Opposites

  • ungeeignetunsuitableadjective
  • unangebrachtinappropriateadjective

Related words

  • passenfitverb
  • die Passungfitnoun

Word lists with this word