-able:
* Generally indicates "capable of being" or "suitable for."
* Examples: Breakable (capable of being broken), washable (suitable for washing)
* Often added to verbs:
* Examples: Change + able = changeable, manage + able = manageable
-ible:
* Often used for words derived from Latin or French:
* Examples: Visible (from the Latin "visibile"), audible (from the Latin "audibilis")
* Sometimes indicates "capable of being" but often has a more specific meaning:
* Examples: Incredible (not believable), edible (fit for eating)
Tips for Choosing:
* Think about the meaning: Consider what the word means and if the meaning fits the concept of being capable of something, being suitable for something, or having a specific characteristic.
* Check a dictionary: When in doubt, check a dictionary to see if the word exists and how it's spelled.
* Practice: The best way to learn is to practice using these suffixes in different contexts.
Important Note: While there are some patterns, there are many exceptions to the rules. There are also cases where both "-ible" and "-able" can be used with the same word, often with slightly different meanings.