common suffix

Rule Core

Common adjective suffixes (-ous, -ive, -ative) convert nouns or verbs into adjectives. Phonically, these suffixes are typically unstressed, with primary stress remaining on the stem.

Pronunciation Guide

• -ous /əs/: relaxed central tongue, slightly open mouth, light airflow.
• -ive /ɪv/: short lax vowel /ɪ/ moving quickly to a voiced /v/.
• -ative /ətɪv/: initial schwa /ə/ is reduced; keep the rhythm compact.

Word Analysis

• anxious /ˈæŋkʃəs/: stress on the first syllable; -ous reduced.
• attributive /əˈtrɪbjətɪv/: suffix carries no stress.
• collaborative /kəˈlæbərətɪv/: smooth linking, clear stem.

Pitfalls

Avoid over-stressing suffixes or pronouncing reduced vowels as full forms.