Meaning & Definition of word "Suffice"

Suffice

/səˈfaɪs/

verb:

  • 1. to be enough or adequate for a particular purpose
    • Example: A simple salad will suffice for a light lunch.
  • 2. to meet the needs or requirements
    • Example: His qualifications should suffice to get him the job.
  • 3. to be sufficient or adequate
    • Example: Two hours should suffice for me to complete the task.
  • 4. to satisfy or fulfill
    • Example: Their reassurance will suffice to calm my fears.

Etymology

Derived from Old French 'suffire' and Latin 'sufficere', meaning 'to meet, to be enough'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

suffice it to say:

It is enough to say; without elaboration.

suffice for the time being:

To be adequate for the current situation.

suffice one's needs:

To meet someone's requirements or desires.

Related Words

sufficient:

Enough to meet the needs.

sufficiency:

The state of being adequate.

Slang Meanings of suffice