Elementary Grammar
Suffixes
Suffixes are added to the end of a word to change its function, for example an
adjective can become an adverb when it takes a suffix. Some suffixes are used so
frequently in the English language that you may not even think of them – much less
recognize them as suffixes. For example the suffix ‘ed’ is used to indicate tense on a
verb (call-called), and the suffixes ‘-s’, ‘-es’ are used to indicate number (chairchairs).
Some common suffixes are: ‘-less’, ‘-ness’, ‘-ful’ and ‘-ly’
Whenever you form an adjective by adding the suffix ‘-less’ you are describing
something as not having or not affected by the thing mentioned. For example
something or someone that is powerless it means that it doesn’t have any power.
Other words with this feature: homeless (without a home), meaningless
(without importance).
The suffix ‘-ness’ is attached to adjectives to form abstract nouns. It often means
‘state of’.
Dark-darkness
Kind-kindness
(state of being dark)
(state of being kind)
The suffix ‘-ful’ is used to refer to being full of something.
Helpful is someone who is generally ready to help others.
A child of pleasant temperament can be said to be playful.
The suffix ‘-ly’ can be used to show a specific time as in ‘monthly-something is
done regularly’ or manner as in ‘quietly-to show that something is done in a
quiet manner’ or to characterize mannerism as in ‘cowardly-like a coward’.
And here are some examples taken from the article 'Irish Fairies and the Gift of the
Gab':
Though many aspects of her identity are now rooted in Australian culture
there is one thing she carries with her that is a truly inherent link to
Ireland: superstition.
The colourful imagery that is evoked by the Irish phrases my mother often says
is reminiscent of this.
He looked at me with full seriousness and said simply, “The fairies would get
him”.
'...like the Blarney castle with its roof completely collapsed...'
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