Suffix - Derivational Suffixes

Derivational Suffixes

In the example:

"The weather forecaster said it would be clear today, but I can't see clearly at all"

the suffix -ly modifies the root-word clear from an adjective into an adverb. Derivation can also form a semantically distinct word within the same syntactic category. In this example:

"The weather forecaster said it would be a clear day today, but I think it's more like clearish!"

the suffix -ish modifies the root-word clear, changing its meaning to "clear, but not very clear".

Some derivational suffixes in present day English:

  • -ian
  • -ize/-ise
  • -fy
  • -ly
  • -ful
  • -able/-ible
  • -hood
  • -ness
  • -less
  • -ism
  • -ment
  • -ist
  • -al
  • -ish

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