MTEL Communication Literacy Skills : Reading Practice Test

What role do suffixes play in word formation?

1. They indicate the definition of a word

2. They modify the meaning of the root word

3. They transform a word into its antonym

4. They define a word's part of speech

The correct answer is: They modify the meaning of the root word

Suffixes play a significant role in modifying the meaning of the root word. By attaching to the end of a base word, suffixes can change the word's meaning or its grammatical function. For example, adding the suffix "-ness" to the adjective "happy" transforms it into "happiness," which conveys a state or quality rather than just the adjective itself. This modification can involve various aspects, such as changing a verb into a noun, altering a word's tense, or converting an adjective into an adverb—each of which contributes to the richness and flexibility of the language. Understanding how suffixes function helps in deciphering new vocabulary and enhances overall comprehension and communication skills.