1. Forming Adjectives:
* "ness" or "quality of": This is the most common use of "-ty". It indicates the quality or state of being something.
* happy (adjective) + -ty = happiness (noun, the state of being happy)
* cruel (adjective) + -ty = cruelty (noun, the quality of being cruel)
* safe (adjective) + -ty = safety (noun, the state of being safe)
2. Forming Nouns:
* "state of being" or "condition": Sometimes "-ty" forms nouns that describe a state or condition.
* empty (adjective) + -ty = emptiness (noun, the state of being empty)
* pretty (adjective) + -ty = prettiness (noun, the state of being pretty)
* dirty (adjective) + -ty = dirtiness (noun, the state of being dirty)
3. Forming Abstract Nouns:
* "abstract concept" or "general idea": "-ty" can also form nouns that represent abstract concepts.
* certain (adjective) + -ty = certainty (noun, the state of being certain)
* worthy (adjective) + -ty = worthiness (noun, the quality of being worthy)
* guilty (adjective) + -ty = guiltiness (noun, the state of being guilty)
4. Other Uses:
* "-ty" is also found in some words where it doesn't have a clear meaning, like "entity" or "city." These words have evolved over time and their suffixes no longer have the same significance.
It's important to remember that the meaning of "-ty" can vary depending on the word it's attached to. If you're unsure of the meaning, consult a dictionary.