The spelling of the word "were fitting" might seem a bit tricky, but it all comes down to understanding the sounds represented by the letters. In IPA phonetic transcription, "were" is pronounced as /wɜːr/, rhyming with "fur". "Fitting", on the other hand, is pronounced as /fɪtɪŋ/, with a short "i" sound and a "ng" sound at the end. Together, "were fitting" means that something was appropriate or suitable at a particular time or situation.
"Were fitting" is a verb phrase that is commonly used to describe a situation or action that was appropriate, suitable, or aligned with certain expectations or requirements. It typically refers to a past event or moment when something was considered to be well-suited or congruous in a particular context.
The phrase consists of the past tense of the linking verb "to be" (were) and the adjective "fitting." "Fitting" can have multiple meanings, but in this context, it denotes the act of being suitable or appropriate.
For example, if someone says, "Her remarks were fitting for the occasion," it means that the person's comments or speech were appropriate and relevant to the specific event or circumstances. Similarly, if one says, "The clothes he wore were fitting for a job interview," it implies that the attire was appropriate and in line with what is generally considered acceptable for such a situation.
"Were fitting" conveys the notion that the described subject or action matched the expected or desired requirements, complying with the standards or guidelines associated with the particular situation. It suggests a level of congruity and harmony between the subject and its context, indicating that it was well-suited or compatible.
The phrase "were fitting" consists of two separate words with distinct etymologies:
1. "Were": This is the past tense of the verb "to be" in the subjunctive mood. Its etymology can be traced back to the Old English word "wǣron", which is the plural form of "wæs" (meaning "was"). Ultimately, these words can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "was", which means "to dwell" or "to remain". The word "were" is used to indicate an action or state that is hypothetical, contrary to fact, or uncertain.
2. "Fitting": This is the present participle of the verb "to fit", which means to be suitable, appropriate, or to correspond well with something else.