How does the suffix -ize change a word?

The suffix "-ize" is a versatile suffix that generally transforms a noun or adjective into a verb. It indicates the process of making something become or resemble the noun or adjective it's attached to.

Here's a breakdown of how it works:

1. Converting Nouns to Verbs:

* Example: "modern" (adjective) + "-ize" = "modernize" (verb) - to make something modern.

* Other Examples:

* hospital (noun) + "-ize" = hospitalize (verb) - to send someone to the hospital.

* crystal (noun) + "-ize" = crystallize (verb) - to form crystals.

2. Converting Adjectives to Verbs:

* Example: "legal" (adjective) + "-ize" = "legalize" (verb) - to make something legal.

* Other Examples:

* popular (adjective) + "-ize" = popularize (verb) - to make something popular.

* formal (adjective) + "-ize" = formalize (verb) - to make something formal.

3. Other Uses:

* Intensify meaning: Sometimes "-ize" is used to intensify the meaning of a verb.

* Example: "terror" (noun) + "-ize" = "terrorize" (verb) - to instill fear and terror.

4. Note:

* The "-ize" suffix isn't always used consistently. Some words may have alternative verb forms. For example, you can say "to centralize" or "to centralise".

Overall, "-ize" is a powerful suffix that adds a layer of meaning to words, transforming them into actions.