Words with -able and -ible
Key Notes:
What are suffixes?
Before we dive into ‘-able’ and ‘-ible’, let’s remember what suffixes are! A suffix is a group of letters added to the end of a word to change its meaning. Think of them as word endings that add something extra to the base word!
| -able: Meaning ‘able to be’ |
The suffix ‘-able’ usually means ‘able to be’ or ‘capable of’. When you add ‘-able’ to a verb, you’re saying something can be done.
Examples:
- Wash + -able = Washable (able to be washed)
- Read + -able = Readable (able to be read)
- Enjoy + -able = Enjoyable (able to be enjoyed)
- Believe + -able = Believable (able to be believed)
- Adapt + -able = Adaptable (able to be adapted)
| -ible: Also Meaning ‘able to be’ |
The suffix ‘-ible’ also means ‘able to be’. It’s very similar to ‘-able’, but it’s used with different root words.
Examples:
- Visible (able to be seen)
- Audible (able to be heard)
- Possible (able to be done or happen)
- Responsible (able to be trusted)
- Sensible (able to make good decisions)
Important Tip: There’s no easy rule to know whether to use ‘-able’ or ‘-ible’. You mostly have to learn them through practice and reading! 📚
| Let’s Practice! |
Now, it’s your turn! Complete the following exercises.
Instructions: Fill in the blanks with a word ending in ‘-able’ or ‘-ible’ that makes sense in the sentence.
- This book is so __________, I can’t put it down! (enjoy)
- The sign was barely __________, so we almost missed the turn. (visible)
- My dog is very __________, he always listens to my commands. (train)
- It’s __________ to finish all your homework in one night! (possible)
- This jacket is __________, so you can wear it in the rain. (wash)
Bonus Challenge: Write your own sentences using words with ‘-able’ and ‘-ible’!
| Summary |
Today, we learned about the suffixes ‘-able’ and ‘-ible’, both of which mean ‘able to be’. We saw examples of words using these suffixes and practiced using them in sentences. Keep an eye out for these words when you read, and you’ll become a suffix superstar! ⭐
Let’s practice!🖊️
