MTEL Communication Literacy Skills : Reading Practice Test

What does the noun suffix -hood represent?

1. A relationship or connection

2. Indicates a profession

3. A state or condition

4. A quality or trait

The correct answer is: A state or condition

The noun suffix -hood is used to indicate a state or condition. This suffix typically conveys the idea of a particular phase or status that a person or thing may occupy. For example, in words like "childhood" or "brotherhood," -hood signifies the state of being a child or a brother, respectively. The focus on a state or condition is what makes this suffix distinct, as it encapsulates a period of life or an association that defines a specific identity or experience. The other options represent different functions of suffixes. A relationship or connection might align with a different type of suffix, while a profession is often denoted by suffixes that specifically relate to jobs or vocational roles. Similarly, a quality or trait may involve suffixes that describe characteristics or attributes rather than the state or condition that -hood provides.