MTEL Communication Literacy Skills : Reading Practice Test

Which suffix would you use for an adjective implying a state or condition?

1. -ness

2. -ly

3. -able

4. -esque

The correct answer is: -ness

The suffix "-ness" is used to form nouns that denote a state or condition, making it the appropriate choice for this question. When added to an adjective, it transforms that word into a noun that describes a quality or state related to the original adjective. For instance, adding "-ness" to "happy" creates the word "happiness," referring to the state of being happy. The other suffixes serve different purposes. The suffix "-ly" typically converts adjectives into adverbs, as seen in words like "quickly," which describes the manner of an action. The suffix "-able" denotes capability or suitability, turning words like "enjoy" into "enjoyable," which emphasizes the ability to be enjoyed rather than a state or condition. The suffix "-esque" is used to create adjectives that imply a style or resemblance, as in "picturesque," which relates to the quality of being visually attractive, rather than indicating a state. Thus, "-ness" is the suffix that accurately conveys a state or condition when added to an adjective.