-ate
suffix
UKeɪtUSeɪt
a suffix used to form verbs meaning to make or become, or to indicate a characteristic, or to form adjectives meaning having a particular quality
Example Sentences
The company will attempt to renovate the old building.
She was able to communicate with ease after she acclimated to the new environment.
The manager decided to update the system with the latest software.
They tried to cultivate a sense of teamwork within the office.
The government aims to regulate the industry more efficiently.
The team worked hard to negotiate a favorable agreement for the contract.
The task is to educate children about the importance of healthy eating.
He attempted to activate the device, but it did not work as expected.
Synonyms
How to Use
Suffix used to form verbs, adjectives, or nouns with varied meanings.The suffix '-ate' is highly versatile and used to form verbs, adjectives, or nouns. As a verb, it often means 'to cause' or 'to perform' (e.g., 'activate' means to cause to become active). As an adjective, it denotes a state or quality (e.g., 'accurate' means correct). As a noun, it refers to something associated with or characterized by (e.g., 'candidate' refers to a person seeking an office). The meaning depends on the root word it attaches to, so context is crucial for accurate usage.
Alternatives
Alternatives depend on the role. For verbs, '-ify' (e.g., 'simplify') or '-ize' (e.g., 'realize') may work. For adjectives, '-ous' (e.g., 'gracious') can substitute, while for nouns, '-ant' (e.g., 'applicant') may be appropriate.
Writing
In writing, '-ate' is valuable for creating formal or precise terms. It is widely used in technical, scientific, and professional contexts. Be mindful of the root word's meaning to maintain clarity, as '-ate' can drastically change its role or nuance.
Casual Conversation
In casual conversation, '-ate' is less commonly discussed but appears in familiar words like 'educate' or 'celebrate.' It’s intuitive and widely understood, making it effective in various contexts.
Etymology
The suffix '-ate' comes from Latin '-atus,' a past participle ending that adapted into English. It retains its functional diversity, shaping verbs, adjectives, and nouns. Its Latin roots have made it particularly prevalent in scientific, legal, and formal vocabulary.