Question 1

What verb formation patterns are practised here?

Accepted Answer

This verb formation page practises ways to make verbs from nouns and adjectives, including en-, -en, -ify and -ise. British English uses -ise as the default spelling here, while -ize may be accepted as an American variant in some answers. Examples include enlarge, enable, simplify, organise and strengthen. The sentence usually shows that a verb is needed after to, after a modal, or after a subject. The answer must fit both the word family and the grammar of the sentence.

Question 2

When should I use -ise and when is -ize acceptable?

Accepted Answer

For front-facing British English, use -ise as the default spelling: organise, modernise and standardise. In many international contexts, -ize is also accepted, especially in American English, so some exercises allow both forms. The important point is to be consistent and to follow the accepted answers for the task. If you are writing for a British course or exam, prefer -ise unless the exercise explicitly asks for an American spelling or lists -ize as a variant. Always test the completed answer in the full sentence.

Question 3

How do I know the sentence needs a verb?

Accepted Answer

Several grammar clues can show that a verb is needed. The word to before the gap often points to a base verb. Modal verbs such as can, must or should also need a base verb after them. A subject followed by a gap may need a present or past verb form, depending on the sentence. After you form the verb, check whether it needs a tense ending. Verb formation is not only about adding a suffix; the completed verb must work in the sentence structure.

Verb Formation Exercises

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