Determine the meaning of a word with -able or -ment

Key Notes :

-able: Meaning ‘Can Be Done’

The suffix -able means ‘can be done’ or ‘able to be’. When we add -able to a word, we’re saying that something is possible or allowed.

Let’s look at some examples:

Word + -able drinkable (can be drunk) washable (can be washed) readable (can be read)

Word drink wash read

See how -able changes the meaning? Drink is something you do, but drinkable means something can be drunk! Wash is an action, but washable means an item can be washed.

More Examples:

• breakable: Can be broken (like a glass).
• comfortable: Able to give comfort (like a cozy chair).
• edible: Safe to be eaten (like an apple).

-ment: Meaning ‘The Act Of’ or ‘The Result Of’

The suffix -ment usually means ‘the act of’ or ‘the result of’ something. When we add -ment to a word, we’re often talking about an action, a process, or a state of being.

Let’s explore with examples:

Word + -ment movement (the act of moving) agreement (the result of agreeing) excitement (the state of being excited)

Word movea gree excite

Notice how -ment turns a verb into a noun? Move is an action, but movement is the act of moving. Agree is something you do, but agreement is the result of agreeing.

More Examples:

• payment: The act of paying.
• enjoyment: The state of enjoying something.
• treatment: The act of treating someone or something.

Word Detective Time!

Now you know how -able and -ment can change the meaning of words! Keep an eye out for these suffixes in your reading, and you’ll become a super word detective! Remember:

• -able means ‘can be done’.
• -ment means ‘the act of’ or ‘the result of’.
• Practice: Try adding -able and -ment to different words and see what new words you can create.
• Read: Pay attention to words with -able and -ment in your books.
• Share: Tell a friend or family member what you learned about -able and -ment!

Let’s practice!