Suffix "-EN": Causative and Inchoative Verbs
The suffix "-en" creates verbs with two distinct meanings: causative (to make something) and inchoative (to become something). From "darken" to "strengthen," this suffix expresses transformation.
Causative Meaning: Making Something
Darken (make dark), brighten (make bright), soften (make soft), harden (make hard)—verbs expressing causing a state.
Inchoative Meaning: Becoming
Ripen (become ripe), widen (become wide), deepen (become deep)—verbs expressing entering a state.
Strength and Intensity Changes
Strengthen (make/become strong), weaken (make/become weak), tighten (make/become tight)—vocabulary for intensity modification.
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Conclusion
The "-en" suffix shows how English efficiently creates verbs of transformation, whether caused externally or occurring internally.
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