it is only fitting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'it is only fitting' is correct and can be used in written English.
The phrase is used to say that something is appropriate or suitable given the situation. For example, you could say "It is only fitting that Joe, a veteran, leads the parade this Memorial Day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is only fitting that we gather in a city to which Muhammad always returned after his great triumphs.

The New York Times - Sports

So it is only fitting that the commentators react in kind — calling a goal with passion and personality.

The New York Times

It is only fitting that United Technologies is poised to buy assets from its cross-state rival General Electric.

The New York Times

It is only fitting that he would have to get by Agassi to put himself into position.

The New York Times - Sports

If the Escalade is more at home on Rodeo Drive than on the Rubicon Trail, it is only fitting.

The New York Times

They were loyal lieutenants to Ponting and it is only fitting that his first-class career should outlive theirs.

Independent

It is only fitting that the announcement of a medal created for the digital age spawned its own Internet memes.

The New York Times

With a price determined by supply and demand, industry groups say, it is only fitting for the price to be low now.

The Washington Post

So it is only fitting for many dancers from the New York area who are trained in her style to perform some of her works outdoors.

The New York Times

Perhaps it is only fitting that a city with so much ambivalence toward the internal combustion engine should feel little love in return.

The New York Times

It is only fitting that the most effective way to address it would be through small, low-key and often backbreaking interventions.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is only fitting" when you want to emphasize the appropriateness or deservedness of a particular action, event, or outcome given the circumstances. It adds a sense of natural consequence or moral rightness to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "it is only fitting" in very casual or informal conversations, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler phrases like "it makes sense" or "it's appropriate" in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is only fitting" serves as a connector or introductory phrase to explain or justify a situation or action. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase indicates appropriateness or suitability. It suggests that what follows is a logical or morally justifiable outcome.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is only fitting" is a phrase used to express that something is appropriate, deserved, or logically consistent with the given circumstances. As Ludwig AI explains, it is used to say that something is appropriate or suitable given the situation. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academic writing, the phrase carries a neutral to formal tone, suggesting its suitability for contexts requiring justification or rationale. When writing, be mindful of the context and avoid overuse in very informal situations. Consider alternatives like "it makes sense" for casual settings. The phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used, making it a valuable addition to your writing toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is quite fitting

Similar to the original phrase but with a slight emphasis on the degree of appropriateness.

it is only right

Suggests a moral or ethical justification.

it is just right

Emphasizes suitability in terms of rightness or appropriateness.

it is well-suited

Focuses on the compatibility or appropriateness of something for a specific purpose or situation.

it is most appropriate

Highlights the suitability of an action or event.

it is entirely suitable

Suggests something is completely appropriate under the circumstances.

it is perfectly apt

Emphasizes the suitability and relevance of something.

it stands to reason

Indicates that something is logical or expected.

it is but natural

Expresses that something is a natural consequence or reaction.

it is what one would expect

Implies that an outcome is predictable or anticipated.

FAQs

How can I use "it is only fitting" in a sentence?

You can use "it is only fitting" to express that something is appropriate or deserved given the circumstances. For example, "It is only fitting that the team should celebrate their victory after all their hard work".

What's a more formal alternative to "it is only fitting"?

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases like "it is most appropriate" or "it is entirely suitable".

What can I say instead of "it is only fitting" in a casual context?

In more casual contexts, consider using phrases such as "it makes sense", "it's appropriate" or "it is only right".

Is there a difference between "it is fitting" and "it is only fitting"?

While both phrases express appropriateness, "it is only fitting" adds a stronger sense of inevitability or moral rightness. The addition of "only" emphasizes that it is the most appropriate or deserved outcome.