Nouns and verbs frequently adopt this two-letter suffix. Examples include “house,” “horse,” “promise,” and “surprise.” The final “e” often alters the preceding vowel sound, as seen in the shift from “us” to “use.” This pattern distinguishes these terms from similar words like “hors” or “promis,” clarifying pronunciation and meaning.
This specific letter combination contributes significantly to English vocabulary. It shapes pronunciation and differentiates otherwise similar words, aiding comprehension. Understanding such patterns offers insights into etymology and the evolution of the language. Historically, the “e” ending sometimes signified an inflection, particularly in earlier forms of English, a remnant of which persists in modern usage.