Suffice: meaning, definitions and examples

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suffice

 

[ səˈfaɪs ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

general use

To suffice means to be enough or adequate for a particular purpose. It indicates that something meets the necessary requirements without being excessive. The term is often used in contexts where there is a question of whether something is sufficient. It can apply to various situations, from provisions to abilities.

Synonyms

meet, satisfy, serve

Examples of usage

  • A simple explanation will suffice.
  • Five dollars should suffice for the trip.
  • Her skills suffice for the job.
  • The food was sufficient to suffice everyone's appetite.

Translations

Translations of the word "suffice" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bastar

🇮🇳 पर्याप्त होना

🇩🇪 ausreichen

🇮🇩 cukup

🇺🇦 достатньо

🇵🇱 wystarczać

🇯🇵 足りる

🇫🇷 suffire

🇪🇸 bastar

🇹🇷 yeterli olmak

🇰🇷 충분하다

🇸🇦 يكفي

🇨🇿 stačit

🇸🇰 postačovať

🇨🇳 足够

🇸🇮 zadostovati

🇮🇸 nægja

🇰🇿 жеткілікті болу

🇬🇪 საკმარისია

🇦🇿 kifayətlənmək

🇲🇽 ser suficiente

Etymology

The word 'suffice' originates from the Latin word 'sufficientem', meaning 'to meet or be enough'. This Latin root derives from 'sufficere', which is a combination of 'sub-' meaning 'under' and 'facere' meaning 'to make or do'. It was adopted into Old French as 'suffire' before entering into Middle English around the late 14th century. Over the years, it has maintained its meaning of being adequate or enough. The usage of 'suffice' in English has remained relatively stable, with its applications found primarily in formal and written contexts. Its etymological evolution reflects a consistent emphasis on sufficiency and adequacy throughout its history.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,203 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.