What does the suffix "-able" imply in a word?

Prepare for the JLAB Academic Test with flashcards and multiple-choice questions that include hints and explanations. Get ready and excel in your exam!

The suffix "-able" is used in English to indicate that something can be done or is capable of being performed. When this suffix is added to a verb, it transforms the verb into an adjective that conveys the notion of ability or suitability. For instance, in the word "breakable," it suggests that something can be broken, reflecting this intrinsic capability.

The other options represent different suffix meanings. "Related to" would pertain more to the suffix "-al," while "action of" typically aligns with the suffix "-tion" or "-ment," indicating a process or state. Similarly, "made of" is commonly associated with the suffix "-en" or "-ic," which conveys material or characteristics derived from something else. Thus, the correct understanding of "-able" as implying capability is fundamental for recognizing and using adjectives in English correctly.

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