Cool MateCostume vs Suit
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Costume | Suit | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | An outfit worn for a particular occasion, often for parties or performances. | A set of clothes, usually a jacket and pants, worn together. |
| CEFR level | B1 | A2 |
| Part of speech | noun | noun |
| Usage notes | Use 'costume' when referring to clothing for events like Halloween or theatrical performances. Avoid using it in formal contexts not related to dress or play. | Used in both formal and casual contexts. Suitable for business, weddings, and formal events, but may feel out of place in casual settings. Be careful not to confuse 'suit' with 'suit up', which means to dress formally. |
Frequently asked questions: Costume vs Suit
What's the difference between "Costume" and "Suit"?
"Costume" means: An outfit worn for a particular occasion, often for parties or performances. "Suit" means: A set of clothes, usually a jacket and pants, worn together.
When should I use "Costume" and "Suit"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Costume" and "Suit" the same CEFR level?
"Costume" is at B1, "Suit" is at A2 on the CEFR scale.