Meaning & use
suffix -able
Last updated
Meanings
suffix
Added to verbs to make adjectives meaning that something can be done or is worth doing.
Grammar: Attaches to a verb to form an adjective: wash + able → washable.
Patterns
- verb + -able
- something is -able
This fabric is machine washable, so cleaning it is easy.
The file is not readable on older computers.
Her name was not pronounceable to most English speakers.
suffix
Added to nouns to make adjectives meaning having the stated quality or being suitable for it.
Grammar: Attaches to a noun to form an adjective: comfort + able → comfortable.
Patterns
- noun + -able
- a -able noun
The chairs were comfortable enough to sit in all afternoon.
He is a very knowledgeable teacher.
Common combinations
- machine washable
- The label says the jacket is machine washable.
- highly readable
- Her new book is highly readable and hard to put down.
- comfortable enough
- The shoes are comfortable enough for a long walk.
- not pronounceable
- That word is not pronounceable for most learners.
Commonly confused: suffix -able or -ible?
suffix -able vs -ible
Same meaning, different spelling. Use -able with most verbs, but -ible appears in words like possible, visible and terrible.
Practice
Which sentence uses the suffix -able correctly?
Choose one answer.
Eatable means 'can be eaten', so sentence B shows the passive meaning clearly. Sentence An is grammatical but the second clause does not explain the meaning of -able; C reverses the meaning; D does not show ability at all.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “suffix -able”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.