Here's how it works:
* Govern: This is the root word, meaning to rule or control.
* -ment: This suffix transforms the verb "govern" into a noun, referring to the act or process of governing.
Therefore, "government" signifies the system or group of people responsible for ruling a country or state.
It's important to note that "-ment" is not always about action or process. Sometimes it can indicate a state or condition, as in "movement" (the act of moving) or "argument" (a disagreement).