Which of these suffixes requires the use of the combining vowel?
A) -algia
B) -ologist
C) -osis
D) -stenosis

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The suffix -stenosis requires the use of the combining vowel because it starts with a consonant and adding the suffix directly to the root word would result in an awkward combination of letters. For example, "artery + stenosis" becomes "arteriostenosis" with the combining vowel "o" added to make it easier to pronounce. The other suffixes (-algia, -ologist, -osis) do not require a combining vowel because they either start with a vowel or are able to be added directly to the root word without creating an awkward combination of letters.

Which of These Suffixes Requires the Use of the Combining