Both mean 'quedar bien', but one is about size and the other about style or what looks good on you.
Verb. To be the right size or shape. The garment or object physically fits the body or space.
These shoes fit perfectly.
Estos zapatos me quedan perfectamente de talla.
The jacket does not fit. It is too small.
La chaqueta no me queda. Es demasiado pequeña.
Does this key fit the lock?
¿Esta llave entra en la cerradura?
Verb. To look good on someone or be appropriate for them. The garment or choice is flattering or fitting.
That color really suits you.
Ese color te favorece mucho.
A career in medicine would suit her perfectly.
Una carrera en medicina le quedaría perfectamente a ella.
Does Tuesday suit you for the meeting?
¿El martes te viene bien para la reunión?
Common mistake
Using "fit" when you mean something is aesthetically flattering. Wrong: "That color fits you." (correct: That color suits you.) Size can "fit", but color and style "suit".
Trick to remember it
"Fit" = size, shape, physical space (does it fit?). "Suit" = style, flattery, convenience (does it look good? does it work for you?). If you can measure the difference with a tape, use "fit". If it is aesthetic or about convenience, use "suit".
Quick rule
Is it a matter of physical size or shape? Use "fit". Is it a matter of style, flattery, or convenience? Use "suit".
Did you know?
"Suit" as a noun means a business suit. This gives a clue: if something "suits" you, it fits you like a well-cut suit, not in size but in style and purpose. And "fit" has another important use: "I need to get fit" (to get in shape). "Fit" also means healthy and in good physical condition.
Exercise 1 · Pick the right one
These jeans do not _____. They are too tight.
Exercise 2 · Pick the right one
That hairstyle really _____ you. You look great.
Exercise 3 · Form the word
Is it a matter of physical size or shape? Use "fit". Is it a matter of style, flattery, or convenience? Use "suit".
Using "fit" when you mean something is aesthetically flattering. Wrong: "That color fits you." (correct: That color suits you.) Size can "fit", but color and style "suit".
"Fit" = size, shape, physical space (does it fit?). "Suit" = style, flattery, convenience (does it look good? does it work for you?). If you can measure the difference with a tape, use "fit". If it is aesthetic or about convenience, use "suit".
Bryan López
Founder of SpeakUP Academy