-ic
suffix
UK/ɪk/ or /ɪk/US/ɪk/ or /ɪk/
Used to form adjectives (and sometimes nouns) that describe a characteristic or relate to a particular field, style, or quality. Derived from Latin and Greek ‘-ikos,’ meaning ‘pertaining to.’ Examples include ‘historic’ (pertaining to history), ‘romantic’ (pertaining to romance or feeling), ‘basic’ (pertaining to a base or fundamental level), and ‘economic’ (pertaining to economics).
Example Sentences
Historic buildings often require special permits for renovation in order to preserve their original architecture.
Romantic novels focus on passionate relationships and emotional narratives, making them popular among a broad readership.
His basic understanding of mathematics allowed him to solve everyday problems, though he still found advanced equations challenging.
Economic principles guide businesses and governments in making decisions related to resource allocation and financial policies.
The scenic route offered breathtaking mountain views, attracting hikers and photographers alike.
Organic produce is grown without synthetic pesticides, promoting environmental sustainability and healthier dietary choices.
Graphic design merges art and technology to communicate ideas visually, influencing how brands connect with audiences.
Energetic music at the concert revitalized the crowd, prompting them to dance late into the night.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
A suffix meaning 'relating to' or 'characterized by.'The suffix '-ic' is used to form adjectives from nouns or verbs, indicating a relation, quality, or characteristic. Examples include 'historic' (relating to history), 'organic' (pertaining to living matter), and 'poetic' (characterized by poetry). It is widely applied across scientific, artistic, and descriptive contexts to highlight associations or attributes.
Alternatives
Alternatives to '-ic' include phrases like 'relating to' or 'pertaining to,' such as 'related to history' for 'historic.'
Writing
In writing, '-ic' provides a precise and formal way to describe qualities or associations, making it effective in academic, scientific, and descriptive texts. For instance, 'economic growth' clearly links to the subject of economics.
Casual Conversation
In casual conversation, '-ic' is frequently encountered in familiar terms like 'comic' or 'romantic,' where it naturally conveys descriptive meaning.
