1.3.6

Suffixes: '-ly'

Test yourself

Suffixes - 'ly'

Suffixes are letters or words placed at the end of words which change their meaning. When we add '-ly' to adjectives, they become adverbs, which are words that describe verbs. Let's look at some examples of words ending in 'ly'...

Suffixes - 'ly'

You have already learnt that adding '-ly' to the end of adjectives turns them into adverbs. But there are some exceptions you need to know about. Let's look at these exceptions...

Illustrative background for Exception 1 - '__y__' endingIllustrative background for Exception 1 - '__y__' ending ?? "content

Exception 1 - 'y' ending

  • If the root word ends in a ‘y’, this is changed to an ‘i’.
    • Happily (happy).
    • Angrily (angry).
Illustrative background for Exception 2 - '__le__' endingIllustrative background for Exception 2 - '__le__' ending ?? "content

Exception 2 - 'le' ending

  • If the root word ends ‘le’, it is changed to ‘ly’.
    • Gently (gentle).
    • Simply (simple).
Illustrative background for Exception 3 - '__ic__' endingIllustrative background for Exception 3 - '__ic__' ending ?? "content

Exception 3 - 'ic' ending

  • If the root word ends ‘ic’, then ‘ally’ is added instead of ‘ly’.
    • Dramatically (dramatic).
    • Frantically (frantic).

Jump to other topics

1Spelling

2Punctuation

3Grammar

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson