Definition and Etymology of Ably (suffix)

1. Definition

What is, Concept or Meaning

suffix. -ably is a suffix that is used to form adverbs corresponding to adjectives in -able. For example, the adjective “capable” can be converted into the adverb “capably” by adding the suffix -ably.

This suffix is used to indicate that an action is being performed in a manner that is consistent with the adjective it is derived from. In the case of “capable,” the adverb “capably” would indicate that the action is being performed with capability or skill. Similarly, the adjective “comfortable” can be converted into the adverb “comfortably” which would indicate that the action is being performed in a comfortable manner.

2. Etymology

The suffix -ably is derived from the Old French -able and Latin -abilis, both meaning able or capable. The -able suffix comes from the latin word “habilis” meaning able. This suffix has been used in English language since the 15th century and it has been used to indicate the manner of an action being performed.

The -able suffix originally comes from the Latin word “habilis” which means “able” or “capable”. This suffix was used in Old French to form adjectives from verbs, indicating that the subject of the adjective was able to perform the action described by the verb. For example, “amable” in Old French means “lovable” someone who is able to be loved.

3. History

The -able suffix was then borrowed into the English language in the Middle Ages, where it was used to form adjectives indicating capability or suitability. For example, “capable” means able to do something, “reasonable” means able to be reasoned with.

The -ably suffix is formed by adding the -able to the verb, it indicates the manner in which the action is performed. The suffix -able is often used to form adverbs from adjectives, indicating the manner in which an action is performed. For example, “capable” becomes “capably” indicating that the action is performed with capability or skill.

In summary, The etymology of -ably is rooted in the Old French -able and Latin -abilis, both meaning able or capable. The suffix has been used in the English language since the 15th century and it is used to indicate the manner in which an action is performed.

4. Examples of use

1. “She spoke fluently and capably” In this sentence the adverb “capably” is used to indicate that she spoke with capability or skill.
2. “He played the piano comfortably” In this sentence the adverb “comfortably” is used to indicate that he played the piano in a comfortable manner.
3. “She carried out her duties admirably” In this sentence the adverb “admirably” is used to indicate that she carried out her duties in an admirable manner.

5. Uses and Applications

The suffix -ably is used to indicate that an action is being performed in a manner that is consistent with the adjective it is derived from.

The suffix -ably is used to form adverbs from adjectives, which can be used in various forms of writing and speech. It can be used in sentences to express how an action is performed.

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