In English morphology, words demonstrating predictable inflectional patterns are classified as regular, typically by adding suffixes like “-ed” for past tense verbs or “-s” for plural nouns. Conversely, words exhibiting unpredictable changes in their forms during inflection are termed irregular. For instance, “walk” becomes “walked” (regular), while “go” becomes “went” (irregular). A compilation categorizing words based on these predictable and unpredictable inflectional patterns provides a valuable tool for language learners and educators.
Understanding these classifications is fundamental to mastering English grammar and spelling. Such knowledge enables more accurate communication, both written and spoken. Historically, these distinctions reflect the evolution of the language, with irregular forms often preserving remnants of older grammatical structures. This categorization assists in understanding the etymological roots and historical development of English vocabulary.
