suffice
Suffice (verb) means to be enough for a purpose or need. Example: “A quick apology should suffice.”
How to use suffice
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo be enough.
The phrase "suffice it to say" is a fixed idiom meaning "it's enough to say" — it doesn't change form.
Word forms
sufficed past tense, suffices singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
A quick apology should _____.
Etymology
From Middle French souffire, from Latin sufficere, "to supply, be adequate," from sub- ("under") plus facere ("to make, do").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for suffice
See all rhymes for suffice →Frequently asked questions
What does “suffice” mean?
The word “suffice” means to be enough for a purpose or need. In plain terms, to be enough.
How do you pronounce “suffice”?
“Suffice” is pronounced suh-FYS (/səˈfaɪs/ in IPA).
How do you use “suffice” in a sentence?
Here is “suffice” used in a sentence: “A quick apology should suffice.”
What is another word for “suffice”?
Words with a similar meaning to “suffice” include do.
What part of speech is “suffice”?
“Suffice” is a verb.
Where does the word “suffice” come from?
The word “suffice” comes from Latin. From Middle French souffire, from Latin sufficere, "to supply, be adequate," from sub- ("under") plus facere ("to make, do").
Is “suffice” a common word?
“Suffice” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.