-ics
suffix
UK/ɪks/ or /ɪt.s/US/ɪks/ or /ɪt.s/
Used to form nouns referring to fields of study, domains of knowledge, or the processes and phenomena they examine (from Greek and Latin). Examples include ‘mathematics’ (the study of numbers and space), ‘physics’ (the study of matter and energy), ‘economics’ (the study of wealth and resources), and ‘linguistics’ (the study of language).
Example Sentences
Mathematics, commonly shortened to ‘math,’ involves abstract reasoning with numbers, shapes, and patterns.
Physics explores how matter and energy interact, forming the basis of our understanding of the universe.
Economics analyzes the production, consumption, and distribution of resources, offering insights into how societies allocate goods and services.
Linguistics investigates the structure, evolution, and usage of language, shedding light on human communication across cultures.
Ethics examines moral principles that govern individual and collective behavior, guiding debates on right and wrong in various contexts.
Politics addresses how power, governance, and policy-making shape societies, influencing everything from local community decisions to international diplomacy.
In academic contexts, -ics fields often employ formalized methods, theories, and specialized terminologies to study complex phenomena.
Beyond mere theory, many -ics fields, such as robotics or analytics, incorporate practical applications, enabling interdisciplinary breakthroughs in technology, healthcare, education, and beyond.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
A suffix meaning 'a field of study or knowledge' or 'a collection of principles.'The suffix '-ics' is used to form nouns that denote fields of study, areas of knowledge, or systems of principles. Examples include 'physics' (the study of matter and energy), 'economics' (the study of resource allocation), and 'politics' (the art or science of government). It conveys the systematic or academic nature of the topic.
Alternatives
Alternatives to '-ics' include phrases like 'the study of' or 'the principles of,' such as 'study of motion' instead of 'mechanics.'
Writing
In writing, '-ics' is essential for academic or professional terminology to identify disciplines or systems. For example, 'aesthetics' succinctly refers to the philosophy of beauty and art.
Casual Conversation
In casual conversation, '-ics' terms like 'politics' or 'logistics' are widely used and understood, often adapted to general contexts beyond formal study.