What suffix denotes the study or science of a subject?

The suffix that denotes the study or science of a subject is "-logy." This term is derived from the Greek word "logia," which means "the study of." It is commonly used in medical and scientific terminology to indicate a field of study or specialized knowledge. For instance, "biology" refers to the study of life, and "pathology" is the study of diseases. This suffix effectively conveys the idea of a systematic and comprehensive examination of a particular area or discipline.

On the other hand, "-pathy" typically refers to a disease or disorder (as seen in terms like "neuropathy"), while "-logical" is related to the reasoning or principles within a specific field, not the field of study itself. "-plasty" denotes surgical repair or reconstruction, as found in terms like "rhinoplasty." Each of these suffixes serves a distinct purpose and context in medical terminology, highlighting why "-logy" is the appropriate choice for indicating the study or science of a subject.