The suffix of the word 'harmless' is -less.
Understanding Suffixes
A suffix is a letter or group of letters added to the end of a word to form a new word. This addition often changes the original word's meaning or its grammatical function, such as changing a noun into an adjective or a verb into a noun. Understanding suffixes is crucial for expanding vocabulary and comprehending the structure of words in English.
For example, by adding a suffix, a base word can transform its role in a sentence. The suffix '-less' typically indicates "without" or "lacking," transforming nouns into adjectives.
Common English Suffixes and Their Examples
Suffixes are a fundamental part of English morphology, contributing significantly to word formation. Here are some common suffixes and their respective examples:
| Suffix | Examples |
|---|---|
| -ive | active, passive, productive |
| -less | cloudless, harmless, useless |
| -ous | delicious, furious, outrageous |
| -y | cloudy, rainy, sunny |
As seen in the table, the word 'harmless' clearly features the '-less' suffix.
The Suffix "-less" Explained
The suffix -less is derived from Old English and signifies the absence of something or a lack thereof. When appended to a noun, it forms an adjective describing something that does not possess the quality or item indicated by the noun.
- Harm + -less = Harmless: Without harm; not causing injury or damage.
- Cloud + -less = Cloudless: Without clouds.
- Use + -less = Useless: Without use; not serving any purpose.
This suffix is highly productive in English, creating a wide array of adjectives that denote absence or deficiency, providing clear and concise ways to describe various situations and objects.
For a deeper dive into how suffixes function and impact word meanings, exploring reliable linguistic resources can be beneficial. Understanding these elements enhances both reading comprehension and writing precision.
