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What is a diminutive?

A diminutive is a word that refers to a smaller version of something. It can be used to express:

* Size: A small or tiny version of something, like "kitten" for a small cat or "houselet" for a small house.

* Affection: A small, endearing, or playful term of endearment, like "mommy" or "sweetheart."

* Contempt: A small or insignificant version of something, implying a lack of importance or respect, like "little man" or "a tiny speck of dust."

How to form diminutives:

* Suffixes: Common suffixes for diminutives include:

* -let: booklet, piglet, starlet

* -ette: cigarette, kitchenette, laundrette

* -ling: duckling, gosling, foundling

* -ie/y: doggie, birdie, bunny

* -kin: manikin, lambkin, napkin

* Prefixes: Some languages use prefixes for diminutives, like the Italian "piccolo" (small) or the Spanish "pequeño" (small).

Example:

* Original word: Cat

* Diminutives: Kitten (size), kitty (affection), pussycat (affection), small cat (size), tiny cat (size)

Note: Diminutives can have different meanings depending on context and cultural nuances. It's important to be aware of the intended meaning before using one.

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