-ese
suffix
UKiːzUSiːz
Denotes nationality, language, or a characteristic related to a specific place or culture; also used to indicate a style or form
Example Sentences
The term 'Chinese' refers to something or someone from China or the language spoken there.
Japanese denotes nationality or culture associated with Japan.
The suffix '-ese' is used for languages, as in 'Portuguese,' which is spoken in Portugal and Brazil.
Legalese refers to the specialized language of lawyers and legal documents.
In 'journalese,' the suffix highlights a writing style characteristic of journalism.
The word 'Viennese' pertains to something or someone from Vienna.
Surnames like 'Chinese' or 'Burmese' often incorporate the '-ese' suffix for nationality or ethnicity.
The term 'bureaucratese' humorously describes the convoluted language of bureaucracy.
Thesaurus
How to Use
A suffix denoting origin, language, or characteristic style.The suffix '-ese' is used to form adjectives and nouns, primarily indicating: (1) nationality or place of origin (e.g., 'Japanese,' 'Chinese'), (2) languages spoken in a particular region (e.g., 'Portuguese'), and (3) characteristic styles or jargon, often with a mildly critical tone (e.g., 'legalese' for legal jargon). It is widely used in geography, linguistics, and stylistic descriptions.
Alternatives
Alternatives to '-ese' include phrases like 'from Japan' instead of 'Japanese' or 'legal language' instead of 'legalese.' Specificity may require more descriptive phrases in some contexts.
Writing
In writing, '-ese' effectively conveys origin or linguistic style. For instance, 'Mandarin Chinese' indicates both language and region. Be cautious using it for styles, as terms like 'legalese' can imply criticism or complexity.
Casual Conversation
In casual conversation, '-ese' is most common in nationality or language references (e.g., 'She speaks Japanese'). For styles, simpler alternatives may be preferable (e.g., 'technical language' instead of 'technese').
Etymology
The suffix '-ese' originates from Italian '-ese,' adapted into Old French and then English. Its roots connect to Latin '-ensis,' meaning 'pertaining to a place.' Historically, it described inhabitants or languages of a region and later expanded to include stylistic or characteristic usages.