Slay that Suffix

If you use a word with a suffix, stop for moment and ask if version without the suffix has the meaning you want. But you ask: if the suffix doesn't change word, why does suffix version exist? All too often, the writer or speaker is being pretentious. If you think pretentious is o.k., consider its synonyms: showy, flamboyant, ostentatious, splashy (see more below). Is that your intention (or were you after "intent" -- strongly implies deliberateness -- or "intentionality"?) (N.B. "Intentionality" while meaning "state of having an intention," it also has a technical meaning in philosphy.)

Here are some examples to avoid, followed by shorter word that just the job you need done (not accomplished).

• deceptiveness -- better, deception.
• potentiality -- better, potential

But some times the suffix does change the meaning. Here the examples with suffix version and change meaning.

• Function -- functionality gains the meaning of "usefulness."
• Pretension -- pretentiousness extend "pretension" to `affectedly showing off one's claim erudition or prestige.'.(May not be nice to say, but do if it is correct description.)