Spelling list: The suffix -ment

Sometimes you have to work out whether a word ends with -ent or -ant. A trick that might help is to check if the word ends with the suffix -ment.

Have you ever noticed that adding a small ending to a word can completely change its meaning? The suffix -ment changes a verb into a noun. For example, enjoyment is the result of enjoying something, placement is the result of placing something in a specific position, and development is the result of developing.

Words ending in the suffix -ment allow us to describe concepts and experiences with precision in English.

For words that end with the suffix -ment, always use the -ent spelling.

payment
Bob regretfully couldn't make the payment. *
agreement
The whole family was in agreement.
investment
He made a large investment in the company.
engagement
The couple celebrated their engagement. *
government
The government cuts will affect everyone.
achievement
The win was a great achievement.
adjustment
There was an adjustment in today's schedule.
advertisement
I saw an advertisement for a new drink.
amazement
To my amazement, he arrived on time.
amusement
To my amusement, my friend burst out laughing.
nourishment
A plant needs the correct nourishment to grow.
punishment
The judge handed out a harsh punishment to the criminal. *
encouragement
Her family gave her encouragement to succeed.
development
Development of new business is vital to an economy.
replacement
The bicycle needed a replacement wheel.
entertainment
Reading, sports and games are all forms of entertainment.
management
The company was now under new management.
excitement
The football commentator yelled in excitement.
commitment
Playing in a team requires commitment.
improvement
I saw a noticeable improvement in the Year 6 spelling scores. *