verb
to be suitable, to be appropriate
B1
Eignen (reflexive: sich eignen) means 'to be suitable' or 'to be appropriate.' It is a regular weak verb using haben in perfect (hat sich geeignet). It typically appears reflexively and often takes prepositions: sich eignen für (Akk.) or sich eignen als (Nom.); participle is 'geeignet'.
Examples
Der Gutachter meinte, dass sich dieses Modell nicht für den Dauereinsatz eignete, weil die Materialien minderwertig gewesen waren.
The expert said that this model was not suitable for continuous use because the materials had been of poor quality.
Dieses Buch eignet sich gut zum Lernen.
This book is well suited for learning.
Das Haus eignete sich perfekt für eine Familie.
The house was perfectly suited for a family.
Details
Mnemonics
Imagine a peg that fits exactly into a hole — it 'suits' it perfectly
sounds like 'assign' (something assigned fits well)
Notes
Usually used reflexively: 'sich eignen für/zu'. Partizip II: geeignet. Reflexive/intransitive verb; passive forms are not applicable.