Here's a breakdown:
"-er"
* Function: Typically used to form comparative adjectives and adverbs.
* Example:
* bigger (adjective, comparing size)
* faster (adjective, comparing speed)
* more quickly (adverb, comparing speed)
* Exceptions: "-er" can also form nouns indicating a person or thing performing an action.
* baker (a person who bakes)
* teacher (a person who teaches)
* printer (a device that prints)
"-or"
* Function: Commonly used to form nouns indicating a person or thing associated with an action or profession.
* Example:
* actor (a person who acts)
* governor (a person who governs)
* calculator (a device that calculates)
* Exceptions: Some nouns formed with "-or" do not have an easily defined "action" associated with them.
* color (a hue or shade)
* humor (the quality of being funny)
* horror (a feeling of intense fear)
Key Differences:
* "-er" is primarily used for comparison, while "-or" is primarily used to form nouns.
* "-er" is more commonly used for adjectives and adverbs, while "-or" is more commonly used for nouns.
Remember: These are general guidelines, and there are always exceptions. If you're unsure about the correct suffix, it's always best to check a dictionary or thesaurus.