Words with -less

Understanding the Suffix ‘-less’

The suffix ‘-less’ is a powerful tool in the English language. It’s used to indicate the absence or lack of something. Simply put, when you add ‘-less’ to the end of a word, it means ‘without’ or ‘not having’ that thing.

How ‘-less’ Changes Meaning

Adding ‘-less’ completely transforms a word’s meaning. Let’s look at some examples:

  • Care (noun): Concern or looking after something.
  • Careless (adjective): Without care; not concerned; negligent.
Hope (noun): A feeling of expectation and desire.

Hopeless (adjective): Without hope; feeling despair.
Fear (noun): An unpleasant emotion caused by the perception of danger.

Fearless (adjective): Without fear; brave; courageous.
More Examples of Words with ‘-less’
Restless: Unable to rest or relax.

Speechless: Temporarily unable to speak.
Endless: Without end; infinite.

Meaningless: Without meaning; pointless.
Tireless: Without getting tired; energetic.

Worthless: Having no value.
Using ‘-less’ in Sentences

Let’s see how these words are used in sentences:

  • The team felt hopeless after losing the game.
  • The knight was fearless in battle.
  • The universe seems endless.
Summary

The suffix ‘-less’ transforms words by indicating the absence or lack of something. Understanding this suffix expands your vocabulary and improves reading comprehension. Remember, ‘-less’ means ‘without’! By adding ‘-less’ to words, you can create a wide range of new adjectives describing the lack of a quality.

let’s practice!