Choosing Between -able and -ible in Spelling

Lyn Stone explains the use of the suffixes IBL and AL in English. While both suffixes sound the same and have similar meanings, AL is more commonly used and is a productive suffix, meaning it continues to form new words. The video provides rules of thumb for choosing between the two suffixes, such as using AL when the root word can stand alone. Exceptions and specific cases, like words ending in C or G, are also discussed. Additionally, some words can use either suffix, with slight differences in meaning.

What is the main similarity between the suffixes -ible and -able?

• They are used in different contexts.

• They are both used to form nouns.

• They sound the same and have the same meaning.

• They have different meanings.

Which suffix is more commonly used in modern English?

• -ible and -able are used equally

• -able

• -ible

• Neither is used in modern English

What is a general rule of thumb for choosing between -ible and -able?

• Always use -able.

• Use -ible if the root word can stand alone.

• Always use -ible.

• Use -able if the root word can stand alone.

Which of the following words correctly uses the suffix -able?

• Considerable

• Incredible

• Invisible

• Terrible

What happens when you remove the suffix -ible from the word 'invisible'?

• It becomes an adverb.

• It leaves a strange-sounding root.

• It becomes a verb.

• It becomes a standalone word.

Which suffix should be used if the root word ends in 'c' or 'g'?

• -able

• -ible

• Both can be used

• Neither can be used

Why can't the suffix -ible follow a root word ending in 'c' or 'g'?

• It changes the sound of the root word.

• It makes the word unpronounceable.

• It is grammatically incorrect.

• It is not a common practice.

Which of the following words can take either suffix -ible or -able?

• Extendable

• Invisible

• Reasonable

• Terrible

What does 'contractable' with the suffix -ible mean?

• Able to be extended

• Able to go into a state of contraction

• Able to be collected

• Able to be contracted (a disease)

When is the suffix -ible used in the context of collectibles?

• When referring to items that can be contracted

• When referring to items that can be extended

• When referring to rare items worth collecting

• When referring to items that can be collected