Translation guide
How to express that someone or something is suitable, qualified, or appropriate for a role, task, or purpose.
彼はその仕事に向いている。
He is fit for the job.
この水は飲めない。
This water is not fit to drink.
The most common way to say someone or something is a good match for a job, position, or purpose.
Natural and common for saying someone is suited to a role, job, or activity based on their personality or ability.
彼は教師に向いている。
He is fit to be a teacher.
This job isn't right for me.
Slightly more formal or written. Emphasizes objective suitability or fitness for a purpose.
この土地は農業に適している。
This land is fit for farming.
Noun meaning 'the right person for the job'. Often used in business contexts.
彼が適任だ。
He is the right person for the job.
When 'fit for' means having the necessary qualifications, skills, or condition.
Means 'worthy of' or 'befitting'. Used for people or things that match a certain status, occasion, or standard.
彼はその賞にふさわしい。
He is fit for the award.
この部屋は王様にふさわしい。
This room is fit for a king.
Literally 'to be worth ~'. Used when someone deserves something based on merit.
彼は信頼に値する。
He is fit to be trusted.
When 'fit for' refers to being in good enough condition to do something, especially after illness or injury.
A clear, natural way to say someone is in a condition to do something.
彼はもう仕事ができる状態だ。
He is fit for work again.
Means 'able to endure/withstand'. Used for physical fitness for harsh conditions.
この車は長距離の運転に耐えられる。
This car is fit for long-distance driving.
Specifically about whether food or drink is safe or good to consume.
The simplest way to say something is edible or fit to eat.
このキノコは食べられますか？
Is this mushroom fit to eat?
For drinks, meaning 'drinkable' or 'fit to drink'.
この水は飲めますか？
Is this water fit to drink?
向いている is more about personal suitability and natural inclination. 適している is more objective and often used for things or formal evaluations.
彼はリーダーに向いている。
He is suited to be a leader (personality-wise).
この道具はプロの使用に適している。
This tool is suitable for professional use.
The loanword フィットする means 'to fit' in the sense of size or shape (clothes, etc.), not suitability for a role or purpose.