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Summary
The suffixes '-able' and '-ible' are used to turn verbs into adjectives. Words ending in these suffixes often sound the same but they are spelt differently. In this summary you'll learn which words are spelt with '-able' and '-ible'.
The suffix '-able' is usually used if you can hear the whole root word before the ending.
verb | Rely | Adapt | Prefer |
Adjective | Reliable | Adaptable | Preferable |
Note: If there's a consonant before a 'y', it often changes to an 'i', For example, deny becomes deniable.
If the root word ends with 'ce' or 'ge', you must keep the 'e' when you add the suffix.
Verb | Manage | Knowledge | Notice |
Adjective | Manageable | Knowledgeable | Noticeable |
The suffix '-ible' is usually used if you can't hear the whole root word before the ending.
| 'Visible' has the suffix 'ible' as 'vis' isn't a whole root word. | 'Incredible' has the suffix 'ible' as 'incred' isn't a whole root word. |
How to use a dictionary
Words ending -ably or -ibly
Verbs
Adjectives
FAQs
Question: Which suffix do you use if the root word ends with 'ce' or 'ge'?
Answer: If the root word ends with 'ce' or 'ge', you must keep the 'e' and use the '-ible' suffix. For example, 'manage' becomes 'manageable'.
Question: When is the '-ible' suffix used?
Answer: The '-ible' suffix is usually used if you can't hear the whole root word. For example, 'visible' has the suffix 'ible' as 'vis' isn't the whole root word.
Question: When is the '-able' suffix used?
Answer: The '-able' suffix is usually used if you can hear the whole root word. For example, 'adapt' becomes 'adaptable'.
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