Words that end with “-able” and “-ible”

Words that end with -able and -ible are difficult to spell because they’re pronounced the same way. Here are some general guidelines to help you decide which ending to use. But be careful: there are exceptions!

1. If the corresponding noun ends in -ation (notation), add the suffix -able: notable
2. If the corresponding noun ends in -sion or -tion (division), add the suffix -ible: divisible
3. In most other cases, when the root word is a complete word (understand), add the suffix -able: understandable

1. What are the for this project?

deliverables

deliveribles

2. The family stores their in a safe!

valuables

valuibles

3. Most insurance policies have a , that is, an amount of money you will personally be required to pay.

deductable

deductible

4. assets, such as trademarks and copyrights, are assets that are not physical in nature!

Intangable

Intangible

5. You can count on Antonella. She's a young woman.

responsable

responsible

6. The team’s workload is at the current time!

manageable

managible

7. Choose goods that are .

durable

durible

8. The maximum dose for this medication is indicated on the label.

permissable

permissible

9. Keep objects away from children.

breakable

breakible

10. This material is made of polyester.

destructable

destructible