How does the suffix -ment change a word?

The suffix "-ment" generally transforms a verb into a noun, indicating the action, process, or result of that verb.

Here's how it works:

* Verb + -ment = Noun

Let's look at some examples:

* Move (verb) + -ment = Movement (noun) - the act of moving

* Agree (verb) + -ment = Agreement (noun) - a state of being in accord

* Judge (verb) + -ment = Judgment (noun) - the act of forming an opinion

* Develop (verb) + -ment = Development (noun) - the process of growth or change

Key points about -ment:

* Meaning: It signifies the action, process, or result of the verb.

* Part of speech: It changes the word from a verb to a noun.

* Usage: It is a common suffix used in both formal and informal English.

There are some exceptions to this general rule. For example, "payment" is derived from the noun "pay." However, the majority of words ending in "-ment" follow this verb-to-noun conversion pattern.