Understanding Correct Spelling: The Word Manageable

This question asks to identify the correctly spelled word among the given options. The word in question relates to the ability to be managed.

Rules for Adding Suffixes '-able' and '-ible'

The suffixes '-able' and '-ible' are commonly added to root words to create adjectives, often meaning "capable of being" or "worthy of being". A common point of confusion is when to use which suffix, especially when the root word ends with the letter 'e'.

• Generally, if a word root ends in a consonant, '-able' is often used (e.g., comfort + able = comfortable).
• If the root word ends in 'e', the 'e' is often dropped before adding '-able' (e.g., love + able = lovable). However, there are exceptions.
• Exception: Words ending in 'ge' or 'ce' usually retain the final 'e' when adding '-able' to maintain the soft sound of 'g' or 'c'. Examples include noticeable, serviceable, and manageable.
• The suffix '-ible' is typically used with root words that are shorter or already end in certain letters (e.g., visible, flexible, possible).

Analyzing the Options

Let's examine each option based on these rules:

1. Managable: This spelling is incorrect. It drops the final 'e' from the root word "manage", which goes against the rule for words ending in 'ge'.
2. Manageable: This is the correct spelling. The root word is "manage". Since it ends in 'ge', the 'e' is retained before adding the suffix '-able'. This preserves the soft 'g' sound required in the pronunciation of "manage".
3. Mangaeble: This spelling is incorrect. The letters 'a' and 'e' are transposed, and the spelling deviates from standard English rules.
4. Managible: This spelling is incorrect. Firstly, it incorrectly uses the '-ible' suffix with the root word "manage". Secondly, it drops the 'e' from "manage", which is not standard practice for this word.

Conclusion

Based on standard English spelling rules, particularly the treatment of the final 'e' in words ending with 'ge', the correct spelling is Manageable.