Word formation: adjectives

Word formation: adjectives

Let’s see some adjectives that are based on already existing nouns or verbs:

Formation of adjectives based on nouns:

We add a suffix like “-y” or “-al” to the noun. Sometimes we have to modify the noun:

cloud > cloudy

habit > habitual

sleep > sleepy

philosophy > philosophical

Other frequently used suffixes are “-less” and

“-ful”, which, added to the same noun, often have contrary meanings:

care > careless

use > useless

care > careful

use > useful

Formation of adjectives based on verbs:

We can also add a suffix to a verb. Two common examples of suffixes are “-able” or “-
ive”. Sometimes we have to modify the verb:

to adore > adorable

to react > reactive

to break > breakable

to imagine > imaginative

to receive > receptive