apt
Apt (adj) means Suitable or fitting for the situation. Example: “That's an apt description of the problem.”
How to use apt
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishWell-suited to a situation, or likely to behave a certain way.
Word forms
apter comparative, more apt comparative, Apts plural, aptest superlative, most apt superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
That's an _____ description of the problem.
Etymology
From Latin aptus, "suitable, fitting."
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “apt” mean?
The word “apt” means suitable or fitting for the situation. In plain terms, well-suited to a situation, or likely to behave a certain way.
How do you pronounce “apt”?
“Apt” is pronounced apt (/æpt/ in IPA).
How do you use “apt” in a sentence?
Here is “apt” used in a sentence: “That's an apt description of the problem.”
What part of speech is “apt”?
“Apt” is an adjective.
Where does the word “apt” come from?
The word “apt” comes from Latin. From Latin aptus, "suitable, fitting.".
Is “apt” a common word?
“Apt” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
How many meanings does “apt” have?
“Apt” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: suitable or fitting for the situation.
What is the difference between apt and likely?
Apt and likely both describe something that tends to happen, but apt often carries a slightly more formal tone and can suggest a natural tendency, as in "she is apt to forget names." Likely is more neutral and common in everyday speech, and unlike apt, it can be used with a wider range of sentence structures.
What is the difference between apt and appropriate?
When apt means suitable or fitting, it overlaps closely with appropriate, as in "an apt comparison" or "an appropriate comparison." However, apt also has additional meanings that appropriate does not share, such as describing someone as quick to learn or naturally skilled.
Can apt describe a person's intelligence or skill?
Yes, apt can describe someone who is quick to learn or naturally skilled at something, as in "an apt student." This sense is distinct from apt meaning suitable or apt meaning likely to do something.