Common suffixes

English

Definition

Letter groups added to the end of a word that change its meaning or part of speech. Suffixes can turn a verb into a noun, an adjective into an adverb, or change tense, making them essential for understanding how words function in sentences.

Examples

  • '-tion' turns a verb into a noun: educate → education
  • '-ly' turns an adjective into an adverb: quick → quickly
  • '-able' turns a verb into an adjective: enjoy → enjoyable

Related Terms

Common prefixes Word parts strategy Word building Root word families

Study This Concept

Practice common suffixes with free review games in these units:

Vocabulary Unit 3: Prefixes and Suffixes