The suffix “-nal” typically forms adjectives, indicating a relationship or pertaining to something. For instance, “national” relates to a nation, and “final” pertains to the end. Nouns ending in “-nal” are less common, but examples like “journal” and “signal” exist. This suffix derives from the Latin “-nalis.”
Understanding these derivations helps comprehend word meanings and enhances vocabulary. Recognizing “-nal” allows one to infer connections between related words, like “nation” and “national,” and to deduce the likely part of speech. This morphological awareness aids reading comprehension and facilitates effective communication. Historically, studying suffixes like “-nal” has provided insights into language evolution and cross-linguistic influences.