подходить vs подойти

podkhodit vs podoyti — approach/suit regularly vs approach/suit once

What it really means

Подходи́ть is imperfective and подойти́ is perfective. They mean approach someone or something, but also suit or be appropriate: этот размер подходит. With the suitability meaning, подойти often refers to finding that one option works.

Examples in natural speech

Автобус подходит к остановке.
The bus is approaching the stop.
Этот цвет тебе подходит.
This colour suits you.
Подойди сюда, пожалуйста.
Come over here, please.
Я подошёл к окну.
I went up to the window.
Эти туфли мне не подошли.
These shoes did not fit me.

Common mistakes

Подойти to a person is approach, while подойти in “size fits” does not mean walk. For clothes, мне подходит is “it fits/suits me.”

Memory tip

Под- moves closer; what “comes close” can also be a suitable match.

Frequently asked questions

How do you say this fits me?

Say Это мне подходит. For a pair you tried and found unsuitable, say Эти туфли мне не подошли.

How do you say come here?

Use Подойди сюда for one approach.

What is the aspect difference?

Подходить is process, routine, or general suitability; подойти is one approach or one completed fit.

Note: This site uses JavaScript for interactive drills, audio playback, and progress tracking. Please enable JavaScript for the full experience.