The suffix -al is used to mean what?

The suffix -al is used in medical terminology to indicate a relationship to or a characteristic of something, which is described as "pertaining to." This suffix is commonly found in various medical terms, such as "renal," which refers to the kidneys, and "cardiac," which relates to the heart. By using -al, it clarifies that the word describes something associated with the noun it modifies.

The other options focus on different meanings that are not conveyed directly by the suffix -al. For instance, "like" or "resembling," refers to the suffix -oid, such as in "humanoid." "Condition of" is often indicated by suffixes like -osis or -itis, which denote a state or condition. "Process" may be represented by suffixes such as -ation or -ism, which indicate actions or processes. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the specific meanings conveyed by different suffixes in medical terminology.