Which term component usually indicates whether a word is a noun, verb, or adjective?

• A. Combining form
• B. Prefix
• C. Suffix
• D. Root

Answer: (B)

Part of speech is usually indicated by the suffix—the ending added to the base. The suffix often signals whether a term functions as a noun, verb, or adjective. For example, endings like -tion or -ment tend to form nouns; -ize or -ate often turn a stem into a verb; and -ous or -al typically create adjectives. Prefixes at the front modify meaning but don’t consistently determine the word’s class. The root provides the core meaning, and the combining form is the base used to connect with other parts. So, the ending piece is the strongest cue for the word’s grammatical category.