The Power of “-able” and “-ible” in Expanding Our Vocabulary
Words have the power to transport us, inform us, and connect us with others. They allow us to express our thoughts, emotions, and desires.
But have you ever wondered where new words come from? And how do we know if a word should end in “-able” or “-ible”?
In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of “-able” and “-ible” suffixes, affixing, and the creation of new words. We will also delve into the differences between “-able” and “-ible,” and provide you with examples to make these concepts more tangible.
1. -able as a living suffix: Affixing and the creation of new words
The English language is constantly evolving, and one way it does so is through the process of affixing.
Affixing is the addition of prefixes or suffixes to a word, altering its meaning or function. The suffix “-able” is a prime example of this process.
It is often attached to a verb or a noun to create an adjective that means “capable of” or “worthy of.”
For instance, let’s consider the verb “excite.” By adding “-able” to it, we get the word “excitable,” which means capable of being excited. Similarly, by affixing “-able” to the noun “acceptance,” we create the adjective “acceptable,” which means worthy of acceptance.
This process of affixing allows us to expand our vocabulary and convey specific meanings with precision. Another interesting aspect of “-able” is its ability to create new words.
English is known for its flexibility in forming new words, and “-able” often plays a significant role in this process. As new concepts, technologies, and ideas emerge, we turn to this suffix to express them.
For example, think of the word “searchable.” It is a relatively new addition to the English lexicon that describes the ability to be searched (e.g., searchable databases or websites). The suffix “-able” enables us to capture these modern concepts succinctly.
2. -able vs -ible: What sets them apart?
Now that we have explored the power of “-able,” let’s shift our focus to its counterpart, “-ible.” While both suffixes share similar characteristics, they are not interchangeable. One key difference lies in their spellings.
“-able” is more commonly used in English, while “-ible” is often retained from earlier stages of the language or borrowed from other languages. Furthermore, “-able” is usually added to verbs, while “-ible” is often attached to nouns and adjectives.
This distinction helps us determine which suffix is appropriate in any given situation. For example, think of the word “perceptible.” It comes from the noun “perception” and means capable of being perceived.
The “-ible” suffix is used here because it is attached to a noun. To further illustrate the difference, let’s compare some common words that have “-able” and “-ible” counterparts.
Take the word “visible” (capable of being seen). Its “-able” counterpart would be “seeable.” In contrast, “flexible” (capable of bending) corresponds to “flexible,” not “flexable.” These examples highlight the importance of understanding the subtle differences between these two suffixes.
Now that we have explored the intricacies of “-able” and “-ible,” let’s review some examples to reinforce these concepts. Examples of “-able” words:
1.
Actionable (capable of being taken as an action)
2. Dependable (worthy of trust or reliance)
3.
Presentable (capable of being presented or shown)
Examples of “-ible” words:
1. Edible (safe to eat)
2.
Legible (capable of being read or deciphered)
3. Eligible (meeting the necessary criteria or qualifications)
By examining these examples, we can see how “-able” and “-ible” enhance our ability to describe the world around us in a precise and concise manner.
In conclusion,
Words ending in “-able” and “-ible” play a significant role in expanding our vocabulary and expressing complex ideas in a simple and effective way. Through the process of affixing, we can create new words that capture modern concepts and technologies.
By understanding the differences between “-able” and “-ible,” we can use them appropriately to convey specific meanings. So, the next time you come across a word with these suffixes, take a moment to appreciate their power and the vast possibilities they offer in our language.
In conclusion, the suffixes “-able” and “-ible” hold immense power in expanding our vocabulary and allowing us to express ourselves with precision. Through affixing, we create new words and adapt to the ever-evolving English language.
By understanding the subtle differences between “-able” and “-ible,” we can effectively convey specific meanings. This knowledge empowers us to appreciate and utilize these suffixes to their fullest potential.
So, the next time you encounter a word with these suffixes, remember their impact and the doors they open in our linguistic journey. Let them inspire you to dive deeper into the richness of language and embrace the artistry of words.