Translation guide
The English word "suit" has several distinct meanings: a set of clothes, a legal action, a set of playing cards, and the verb meaning to be appropriate or convenient. This guide covers the most common and useful Japanese expressions for each meaning.
A set of matching jacket and trousers or skirt, typically formal.
The most common and general word for a business suit or formal suit. It is a loanword from English and widely used.
He is wearing a new suit.
I will wear a suit to the interview.
A traditional Japanese word for a business suit, typically for men. It is slightly old-fashioned but still understood.
Refers to a matching set, often used for women's suits or coordinated outfits.
This suit set is perfect for the office.
A lawsuit or legal case.
The standard term for a lawsuit or legal action. Used in formal and legal contexts.
One of the four sets in a deck of cards (hearts, diamonds, clubs, spades).
The direct loanword for the suit in playing cards. Commonly used in card games.
To be suitable, convenient, or acceptable for someone or something.
Means to fit, match, or suit. Used for clothes, schedules, personalities, etc. Very common and versatile.
The English word "suit" can mean both clothing and legal action, but in Japanese, スーツ only refers to the clothing. For a lawsuit, use 訴訟 or 裁判.
合う is general 'to fit/match/suit'. 似合う is specifically about appearance (looking good). 適する is formal and about suitability for a purpose.
That suit looks expensive.
My father wears a suit to work.
He filed a suit against the company.
The lawsuit is dragging on.
Means trial or court case. It can be used more broadly than 訴訟, but often implies the court proceedings.
He won the suit.
Specifically means to file a criminal complaint or accuse someone. It is a legal term for initiating a criminal suit.
The victim filed a suit against the perpetrator.
There are four suits in a deck of cards.
Please collect the suit of hearts.
Sometimes used colloquially to refer to the suit symbol, though スート is more precise.
What is the suit of this card?
この服は私に合いますか？
Does this outfit suit me?
Tomorrow afternoon suits me.
Specifically means to look good on someone, to suit one's appearance. Often used for clothes, hairstyles, etc.
That hat really suits you.
Means to be suitable or appropriate for a purpose or condition. More formal than 合う.
This land is suited for agriculture.
Means convenient or suitable, often for schedules or circumstances. Very common in daily conversation.
Does Friday suit you?
If it suits you, please come with us.
Means to like or be pleased with something. It can be used when something suits one's taste or preference.
This color suits my taste.
He filed a suit against the government.
What time suits you?