If you want to make your writing more precise and natural, words that start with -able are a powerful tool. These words, which are actually adjectives formed by adding the suffix -able to a verb or noun, describe something that can be done, is possible, or has a certain quality. For example, readable means something can be read, and comfortable means something provides comfort. This guide will show you how to use these words correctly in emails, conversations, and formal writing, with clear examples and common mistakes to avoid.
Quick Answer: What Are Words That Start With -able?
Words that start with -able are adjectives that express ability, possibility, or suitability. They are formed by adding -able to a base word. For instance, enjoyable (from enjoy) means something you can enjoy, and reliable (from rely) means something you can rely on. These words are common in both formal and informal English, but their tone can shift depending on context.
Formal vs. Informal Tone
Understanding when to use -able words is key to sounding natural. Here is a breakdown:
- Formal: Use words like acceptable, applicable, feasible, and notable in professional emails, reports, or academic writing. Example: “The proposal is feasible within the budget.”
- Informal: Use words like likeable, comfortable, enjoyable, and relatable in casual conversation or friendly emails. Example: “The movie was really enjoyable.”
Email vs. Conversation Context
In emails, -able words can make your tone clearer. For example, saying “Your response is appreciable” sounds formal and polite, while “That’s understandable” is more conversational. In conversation, words like agreeable or comfortable are common and friendly.
Comparison Table: Common -able Words and Their Uses
| Word | Base Meaning | Formal/Informal | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acceptable | Can be accepted | Both | Your behavior is acceptable in this situation. |
| Applicable | Can be applied | Formal | This rule is applicable to all employees. |
| Comfortable | Provides comfort | Informal | I feel comfortable in this chair. |
| Enjoyable | Can be enjoyed | Informal | The party was very enjoyable. |
| Feasible | Can be done | Formal | Is it feasible to finish by Friday? |
| Notable | Worth noting | Formal | She made a notable contribution. |
| Reliable | Can be relied on | Both | He is a reliable friend. |
| Understandable | Can be understood | Both | Your frustration is understandable. |
Natural Examples
Here are examples of -able words in real situations:
- Email: “Please ensure the document is readable before sending it to the client.”
- Conversation: “This weather is unbearable today!”
- Writing: “The author’s style is relatable to young readers.”
- Professional: “The plan is workable with minor adjustments.”
Common Mistakes
Learners often make these errors with -able words:
- Mistake 1: Using capable instead of able. Capable is not formed with -able; it is a separate word. Correct: “She is capable of doing it.” Not: “She is capable to do it.”
- Mistake 2: Confusing acceptable with accepted. Acceptable means suitable, while accepted is the past tense of accept. Example: “The offer is acceptable” vs. “The offer was accepted.”
- Mistake 3: Overusing comfortable in formal writing. In a business report, use suitable or appropriate instead.
- Mistake 4: Spelling errors like noticable instead of noticeable. Remember to keep the e before -able in words like noticeable and changeable.
Better Alternatives and When to Use Them
Sometimes, a simpler word works better than an -able word. Here are alternatives:
- Instead of “It is doable,” say “It is possible” for a more formal tone.
- Instead of “It is likeable,” say “It is pleasant” in professional contexts.
- Instead of “It is understandable,” say “I see your point” in conversation for a natural feel.
- When to use it: Use -able words when you want to emphasize ability or possibility, especially in descriptive writing or when giving feedback.
Mini Practice Section
Test your understanding with these questions. Answers are below.
- Fill in the blank: “The instructions are clear and ____.” (use an -able word)
- Which is correct? “The plan is feasible” or “The plan is feasible to do”?
- Rewrite this sentence using an -able word: “This book can be enjoyed by all ages.”
- True or false: Capable is an -able word.
Answers
- Readable or understandable.
- “The plan is feasible” is correct. Do not add “to do” after feasible.
- “This book is enjoyable for all ages.”
- False. Capable does not end with -able as a suffix; it is a separate adjective.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use -able words in formal writing?
Yes, but choose carefully. Words like acceptable, applicable, and feasible are formal. Avoid overly casual words like likeable or comfortable in very formal contexts.
2. What is the difference between -able and -ible?
Both suffixes mean “can be,” but -able is more common and used with many verbs (e.g., readable). -ible is less common and often appears in words from Latin (e.g., possible, visible). There is no simple rule, so memorization helps.
3. How do I know if a word can take -able?
Most verbs can take -able to form an adjective. For example, wash becomes washable, and break becomes breakable. However, some words like eat do not form eatable naturally (use edible instead). Check a dictionary if unsure.
4. Are there any -able words that are always negative?
Yes, some -able words have negative meanings, like unbearable (cannot be borne) or unforgivable (cannot be forgiven). These are formed by adding un- before the -able word.
Final Tips for Better Writing
Using -ableWriting Word Lists or check out Beginner Word Lists for simpler terms. If you have questions, visit our FAQ page or contact us for help. Remember, good writing is about clarity and natural expression, and -able words are a great step forward.