Words with -less

Key Notes:-

1. Definition of -less

• Suffix Meaning: The suffix “-less” means “without” or “lacking.” It is added to nouns to form adjectives that describe the absence of something.

2. How to Form Words with -less

• Base Word + -less: Add “-less” to a noun to create an adjective.
  • Example: Fear + -less = Fearless

3. Common Examples and Their Meanings

• Hopeless: Without hope.
• Careless: Without care or attention.
• Nameless: Without a name.
• Powerless: Without power or control.
• Restless: Unable to rest or relax.
• Speechless: Unable to speak, often due to shock or surprise.
• Childless: Without children.

4. Using -less Words in Sentences

• Hopeless: “She felt hopeless after her team lost the game.”
• Careless: “His careless mistake caused the project to fail.”
• Nameless: “The nameless hero saved the town from disaster.”

5. Difference Between -less and -ful

• -less implies the absence of something, while -ful implies the presence of something.
  • Example: Careless (without care) vs. Careful (full of care).

6. Word Formation Practice

• Activity Idea: Have students choose a base noun and add “-less” to create new words. Then, they can write sentences using those new words.

7. Understanding Context

• Activity Idea: Provide sentences with missing words and ask students to fill in the blanks with the correct “-less” adjective. For example:
  • “After the accident, she was _______ and couldn’t speak.” (Answer: Speechless)

Let’s practice!