Answer :
The question relates to understanding how to use the suffix '-ness' to form nouns from adjectives. In English, the suffix '-ness' is used to turn an adjective into a noun, often referring to a state, quality, or condition. For example, 'happy' becomes 'happiness,' indicating the state of being happy.
Let's break down each word from the exercise:
- happiness: The state of being happy.
- blindness: The condition of being blind.
- coldness: The quality or state of being cold.
- illness: The condition of being ill or sick.
- politeness: The quality of being polite.
- carelessness: The quality of not being careful.
- loneliness: The state of being lonely.
- laziness: The state of being lazy.
- shyness: The quality of being shy.
- baldness: The condition of having no hair.
- weakness: The state of being weak.
- lateness: The condition of being late.
- likeness: The state of being similar in appearance or nature.
- numbness: The state of being numb.
- seriousness: The state of being serious.
- dizziness: The condition of feeling dizzy.
In using these words, it's important for students to recognize the underlying adjective and the resulting noun form. This helps in expanding vocabulary and understanding different parts of speech in English. Students should practice forming these nouns and using them appropriately in sentences to improve their grammar skills.