ill-suited to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ill-suited to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not appropriate or fitting for a particular purpose or situation. Example: "The new software is ill-suited to our current needs, as it lacks essential features."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Brazil's institutions are ill-suited to this.

The Economist

Her abrasive style proved ill-suited to achieving consensus.

The Economist

Ordinary turbines are ill-suited to Japan's mountainous terrain.

The Economist

The diminutive poet was ill-suited to physical confrontations.

The Guardian - Books

Or maybe his pictures were particularly ill-suited to classification.

The New York Times - Arts

That makes pay singularly ill-suited to broad laws banning this or mandating that.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

It was also ill suited to follow the preceding pieces.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Paladino said they were mainstream politicians ill suited to the task of reforming state government.

The New York Times

Representative Kennedy sometimes seems ill suited to the legacy of Camelot.

The New York Times

Americans, White tells us early on, are "particularly ill suited to be flâneurs".

The New York Times - Books

But the system is still ill suited to older people, advocates say.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ill-suited to", ensure that the context clearly defines what the subject is unsuited for. Specificity enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "ill-suited to" to describe temporary states. This phrase is best reserved for situations where the unsuitability stems from inherent characteristics or fundamental incompatibilities, rather than circumstantial factors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ill-suited to" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate that it is not appropriate or fitting for a particular purpose, role, or situation. Ludwig confirms this.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ill-suited to" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adjective phrase that effectively conveys a lack of fitness or appropriateness. Ludwig's analysis confirms that the phrase is well-established in the English language and widely used across various contexts. As per Ludwig, It is frequently found in "News & Media", encyclopedias, and scientific publications and its meaning is consistently applied, suggesting it is a reliable option for writers. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what the subject is unsuited for and focus on inherent limitations rather than temporary states. Remember that alternatives like ""unfit for"" or ""inappropriate for"" are available to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unfit for

Simple substitution with a direct synonym, emphasizing a lack of fitness.

inappropriate for

Focuses on the lack of appropriateness in a given situation.

unqualified for

Highlights a lack of necessary qualifications or skills.

not cut out for

Informal expression suggesting an inherent lack of aptitude or disposition.

poorly adapted to

Emphasizes a failure to adjust or conform to specific requirements.

out of place in

Suggests a mismatch or disharmony within a particular environment.

not designed for

Highlights that something was not created or intended for a specific use.

a poor match for

Indicates a significant incompatibility or lack of alignment.

incompatible with

Focuses on the inability to coexist or function harmoniously.

not the right choice for

Suggests that there are better or more appropriate options available.

FAQs

How can I use "ill-suited to" in a sentence?

Use "ill-suited to" to describe something not appropriate or fitting for a particular purpose or situation. For example: "His temperament is "ill-suited to" diplomacy."

What are some alternatives to "ill-suited to"?

Alternatives include "unfit for", "inappropriate for", or "unqualified for", depending on the specific context.

Is "ill-suited for" grammatically correct, or should I always use "ill-suited to"?

"Ill-suited to" is the more common and generally preferred construction. While "ill-suited for" might be understood, it's less idiomatic. Sticking with "ill-suited to" ensures clarity and adherence to standard usage.

What's the difference between "ill-suited to" and "poorly suited to"?

The phrases are nearly synonymous. "Ill-suited to" may carry a slightly stronger connotation of unsuitability. You can use either phrase, but ""ill-suited to"" is slightly more common.