sich eignen für/zu
to be suitable for
To be suitable or appropriate for a particular purpose, task, or person.
EXAMPLE
Dieses Material eignet sich hervorragend für den Außenbereich.
This material is excellently suited for outdoor use.
eignen
to be suitable
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Meanings
Usage tips
Reflexive verb
'Eignen' is almost always used reflexively: 'sich eignen' (to be suitable). The reflexive pronoun must be adjusted to match the subject.
EXAMPLE
Ich eigne mich nicht für diese Aufgabe.
I am not suitable for this task.
Fixed prepositions
The verb is used with the prepositions 'für' (for, plus accusative) or 'zu' (for/to, plus dative). 'Für' usually comes before a noun, while 'zu' often comes before a nominalized infinitive.
EXAMPLE
Diese Schuhe eignen sich gut für lange Wanderungen.
These shoes are well suited for long hikes.
Participle as adjective
The past participle 'geeignet' (suitable) is very often used as an adjective, often in the construction 'geeignet sein für' (to be suitable for). It has the same meaning as 'sich eignen für' (to be suitable for).
EXAMPLE
Er ist für die Position des Teamleiters gut geeignet.
He is well suited for the position of team leader.
Compare with
eignen vs passen
to fit / suit / pass
Passen describes something being a good fit in a particular context, often with zu. Sich eignen focuses more clearly on suitability for a purpose or task and is usually used with für. Depending on the perspective, either word may be possible.
eignen
Der kleine Projektor eignet sich gut für unseren mobilen Unterricht.
The small projector is well suited to our mobile classroom.
passen
Der kleine Projektor passt gut zu unserem mobilen Unterricht.
The small projector goes well with our mobile classroom.
In real life
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