Definition and Etymology of Able (sufix)

1. Definition

What is, Concept or Meaning

Sufix.-able is a suffix that can be added to a verb or noun to form an adjective. The suffix -able generally indicates that the noun or verb to which it is added can be made the subject of an action or has a certain characteristic. It can indicate different things such as:
1- the action is possible or necessary to be performed (eatable; payable)
2- that can be made the subject of a specific action (dutiable; objectionable)
3- relevant to or in accordance with certain expectations or norm (fashionable; seasonable).

The suffix -able is derived from the Latin word -abilis, which can be added to the stem of a verb to indicate the possibility or desirability of an action. This is the origin of the suffix -able, and it is used with many verbs to indicate the quality of being able to do something.

2. Etymology of -able

The suffix -able comes from the Latin -abilis, and it’s formed by adding -abilis to the stem of a verb. In Latin, -abilis was used to form adjectives from verbs, indicating the possibility or desirability of an action. This origin is reflected in the use of the suffix -able in English, where it is used to indicate the ability or likelihood of an action. Other words that have the same etymology would be -ible, -ant, -ent and -ive.

3. Examples of use

1- eatable, it can be consumed
2- fashionable, it’s in accordance with the fashion norms
3- payable, it’s necessary to pay

1- “Eatable” is an adjective formed from the verb “eat” with the addition of the suffix -able. The adjective “eatable” indicates that something is suitable for consumption and can be eaten. For example, “This apple is eatable” means the apple is safe to eat, unlike something that is poisonous or otherwise inedible, this apple is safe for consumption.

2-“Fashionable” is an adjective formed from the noun “fashion” with the addition of the suffix -able. The adjective “fashionable” indicates that something is in accordance with current fashion trends or norms. For example, “These shoes are fashionable” means that they are stylish and currently popular, they follow the current fashion trends.

3-“Payable” is an adjective formed from the verb “pay” with the addition of the suffix -able. The adjective “payable” indicates that something is legally or financially obliged to be paid. For example, “This bill is payable” means that the bill is due, and it should be paid by the due date, the person who receives the bill is legally or financially obliged to pay it.

4. Uses and Applications

The suffix -able is widely used in English, and it is a very useful way to form adjectives indicating the ability or desirability of an action or to indicate certain characteristics of things or persons. It is used in many fields such as education, law, business, and others. It’s used to indicate whether certain actions are possible, necessary or relevant. Additionally, it’s used to indicate certain characteristics of things and persons in accordance with certain expectations, norms or standards.

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