suffice - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
suffice Word Meanings
- to be enough
- to fulfill a requirement
- to satisfy a need
suffice Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
suffice Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/səˈfaɪs/
US
/səˈfaɪs/
suffice Word Etymology
suffice = sub- (from below) + facere (to make) → Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a helper that makes things just enough below the desired level, a small basket that's full but not overflowing.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Suffice is a verb meaning to be enough or to fulfill a requirement. It often implies sufficiency without extravagance, as in 'A brief explanation will suffice' or 'This will suffice for now.' Historically, it comes from Latin facere extended through sub- before entering English via Old French, and it captures the sense of meeting a minimum standard. In everyday use, it can take a clause like 'It will suffice if you arrive by 5' and can be formal, as in 'This evidence should suffice to prove the point.' Learners should note that suffice is usually followed by 'to' and a noun or gerund, not a direct object in English, which can feel unusual to speakers of languages with more direct verb-object links.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use after an amount or requirement; 2) Follow with to + noun/gerund or a clause; 3) Prefer formal tone in official contexts; 4) Distinguish from 'satisfy' which implies a goal met; 5) Do not use with direct object; 6) Consider alternates like 'be enough' for simpler style
Common Misconceptions
- Suffice means must do something, not just be enough
- It always takes a direct object like 'this suffices this task'
- Confused with 'satisfy' in all contexts
- Only used in formal writing
- Mistakenly front-loads with 'sufficed' in present contexts
Thinking Differences
English often uses suffice in formal or written contexts to emphasize just enough, whereas many learners expect a more direct object construction; be aware of the to + noun/gerund pattern.
Learning Tips
- Memorize common collocations (suffice + to + verb)
- Compare with be enough for subtle nuance
- Note formal tone in professional contexts
- Practice with verbs that express sufficiency
- Watch for negations like 'not suffice' rather than 'not be sufficient'
- Record short sentences to reinforce usage
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'suffice'?
A.To decrease
B.To complicate
C.To satisfy
D.To confuse
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'suffice' used correctly?
A.The simple solution managed to decrease the customer's complaints.
B.I don't think this will increase for the party decorations.
C.She decided to confuse the budget to purchase the new computer.
D.I don't think this will suffice for the party decorations.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'suffice'?
A.Inadequate
B.Abundant
C.Lack
D.Ample
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'suffice'?
A.Enough
B.Require
C.Meet
D.Satisfactory
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use 'suffice' in a real-life situation?
A.It decreased the project efficiency.
B.It complicated the project deadline.
C.It sufficed to complete the project on time.
D.It confused the project goals.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App