Define suffice Meaning and Definition
Define Suffice
Pronunciation
/səˈfaɪs/
Part of Speech
Verb
Definition
To define suffice means to provide or meet a sufficient amount or degree of something; to be enough or adequate for a particular purpose or requirement.
Examples
1. “The explanation provided did not suffice to answer all my questions.”
2. “A small salary may not suffice for a comfortable living in the city.”
Synonyms
1. Meet
2. Satisfy
3. Fulfill
Antonyms
1. Insufficient
2. Inadequate
Additional Information
Define suffice is often used in various contexts, such as business, relationships, or personal goals, to describe whether something meets the required standards or needs. For instance, in a professional setting, a proposal might not suffice to secure funding, indicating that it falls short of the necessary requirements.
Understanding the nuances of the word define suffice can help individuals effectively communicate their expectations and needs. By recognizing what suffices and what does not, people can make informed decisions and adjust their approaches accordingly.
Furthermore, define suffice can be applied to various aspects of life, such as emotional well-being, relationships, or personal growth. Recognizing what suffices for oneself can lead to a greater sense of self-awareness, contentment, and overall well-being.
Etymology
The word define suffice comes from the Latin word “sufficere,” which means “to suffice” or “to be enough.” This Latin term is derived from “sufficere,” which is a combination of “sub” (under) and “facere” (to make). Over time, the word define suffice evolved into Middle English and eventually into its current form.
Usage Notes
When using define suffice in a sentence, ensure that it is in the correct verb form to match the subject. For example, “The answer will suffice” or “The money does not suffice.” Also, consider the context and intended meaning to avoid confusion or ambiguity.
Cultural References
The concept of define suffice appears in various forms of media, such as literature, film, and music. In Charles Dickens’ novel “A Christmas Carol,” Ebenezer Scrooge is forced to confront what suffices for him, leading to a transformation in his values and behavior.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
Some common idiomatic expressions or phrases that include the word define suffice are “to suffice it to say” (meaning “it is enough to say”) or “that will suffice” (meaning “that is enough”).
Collocations
Common collocations with the word define suffice include “the explanation did not suffice,” “the salary does not suffice,” or “the evidence suffices to prove guilt.”
Frequency of Use
Define suffice is a moderately common word in modern language, used in a variety of contexts, from formal to informal communication. According to corpus linguistics, it appears approximately 1.5 times per 1,000 words in general written English.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings or variations of the word define suffice include “defien suffice,” “deffine suffice,” or “defince suffice.”