Using Suffixes to Create Nouns from Adjectives (Page 3)
(Advanced, C-Level)
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Suffix -ness
Meaning: state, quality, or condition of being.
kind → kindness
dark → darkness
weak → weakness
happy → happiness
sad → sadness
cold → coldness
bold → boldness
good → goodness
soft → softness
rude → rudeness
rough → roughness
mad → madness
ill → illness
fit → fitness
bright → brightness
Example sentences
We were touched by her kindness.
The darkness made it hard to see.
He admired her boldness in speaking the truth.
The sadness in his eyes was obvious.
She exercises daily to improve her fitness.
Suffix -ship
Meaning: state, condition, or skill/relationship.
friend → friendship
hard → hardship
leader → leadership
scholar → scholarship
partner → partnership
member → membership
owner → ownership
fellow → fellowship
craftsman → craftsmanship
citizen → citizenship
Example sentences
They developed a strong friendship over the years.
The family endured many hardships during the war.
His leadership inspired the team to succeed.
She won a scholarship to study abroad.
Our partnership has been very productive.
Suffix -th
Meaning: abstract noun indicating quality or condition (often older forms of English).
deep → depth
warm → warmth
wide → width
long → length
strong → strength
broad → breadth
true → truth
young → youth
high → height
Example sentences
The depth of the ocean is still being studied.
We enjoyed the warmth of the fire.
The table was custom-made to a specific width.
His strength helped him carry the heavy box.
They admired the truth in her words.
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