The suffix -less transforms a phrase, usually a noun, into an adjective signifying the absence or lack of the unique phrase’s that means. For example, “energy” turns into “powerless,” indicating a scarcity of energy. This easy but efficient morphological course of permits for the creation of a variety of descriptive phrases expressing deficiency or deprivation.
This capability to concisely specific absence is invaluable for clear and environment friendly communication. Its origins may be traced again to Previous English, demonstrating its long-standing utility within the language. The power to create these adjectives contributes to nuanced expression, permitting for exact descriptions of states, circumstances, or traits. This contributes considerably to the richness and suppleness of the English lexicon.
