Definition

In a way that involves changes in the form of a word to express different grammatical features.

Example

The word changes inflectionally to indicate tense and number.

Conversation

I was reading about how languages change over time.

That sounds interesting! Do they change inflectionally as well?

Yes, they often do, which affects how we use words in sentences.

I can see how that would make communication evolve.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Inflectionally → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "flectere" (meaning to bend) combined with the suffix "-ion" (indicating the action or process) and the adverbial suffix "-ally" (meaning in a manner). The word refers to the manner in which something is bent or changed, particularly in grammatical terms.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bending' ('flectere') in a way that is 'not' fixed ('in-') — this helps you remember that 'inflectionally' refers to the way language can change or bend in form.

Visually Confused Words