Linguistic Changes with Suffix '-able'

The addition of the suffix '-able' to a word, typically a verb, results in specific linguistic changes. Analyzing the example "This book is readable":

• The base word is "read" (a verb).
• Adding "-able" creates "readable" (an adjective).

This transformation is associated with two primary types of linguistic changes:

Grammatical Category Change Explained

The suffix '-able' frequently modifies the word's part of speech. In this case, it converts a verb into an adjective, signifying a grammatical category change. The word shifts from describing an action to describing a quality or capability related to that action.

Semantic Change Explained

Furthermore, the suffix introduces a new layer of meaning. "Readable" implies that the book possesses the quality of being 'able to be read'. This alteration in meaning, derived from the base verb's concept, constitutes a semantic change.

Analysis of Options

Based on the analysis:

• Sociolinguistic change is not directly indicated by the addition of '-able' itself.
• Grammatical category change (Verb to Adjective) is clearly demonstrated.
• Semantic change (Adding the meaning 'capable of being X-ed') is also evident.
• Typological change relates to broader language system shifts, not specific word formation via suffixes.

Therefore, the linguistic changes associated with adding the suffix '-able' are grammatical category change and semantic change.