Definition

A change in the form of a word to express different grammatical features, such as tense, mood, or number, often by adding prefixes or suffixes.

Example

In English, the word 'dogs' is an example of noun inflection, where 's' is added to indicate plural.

Conversation

Have you noticed how different her voice sounds when she speaks?

Yeah, it has a unique inflection that makes it really interesting to listen to.

I wonder if that's something she practices consciously.

It could be! The right inflection can really change how we perceive someone's message.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Inflection is formed from "in-" (meaning into) and "flectere" (meaning to bend). The word describes the act of bending or changing the form of a word to express different grammatical features.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bending' ('flectere') a word 'into' ('in-') different forms to remember that inflection refers to changing a word's form.

Visually Confused Words