Suffice Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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suffice
[səˈfaɪs ]
Definition
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
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
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Interesting Facts
Usage in Literature
- Shakespeare used the term in several plays, illustrating his characters' struggles with fulfillment and adequacy.
- In modern texts, it often appears in discussions about minimalism and finding contentment with less.
- Many authors use the concept to explore themes of expectation versus reality, highlighting how sometimes ‘just enough’ can be powerful.
Psychology
- The concept relates closely to the idea of satisfaction, where realizing one's needs are met can lead to a sense of happiness.
- Research in positive psychology shows that understanding sufficiency can reduce anxiety about scarcity and unnecessary consumption.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy often discusses sufficiency as a means to develop a more content mindset.
Cultural Perspectives
- In many cultures, the idea of sufficiency influences approaches to wealth, success, and personal fulfillment.
- Eastern philosophies often emphasize sufficiency, encouraging individuals to seek balance rather than excess.
- In some Western discussions, sufficiency can challenge consumer culture by advocating for mindful living with fewer resources.
Science and Measurement
- In scientific contexts, sufficiency often discusses whether a sample size is adequate for drawing conclusions.
- The term can apply in environmental science, where measures of sufficiency pertain to resource use and sustainability.
- In statistics, sufficiency is critical in ensuring that data captures the necessary information needed for reliable conclusions.
Origin of 'suffice'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'sufficere', meaning 'to meet the needs', combining 'sub-' (under) and 'facere' (to do).
- Its first recorded use in English dates back to the 14th century, reflecting its long-standing presence in the language.
- The word has evolved in usage, but always retained the core meaning of meeting requirements adequately.
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.