Have you ever imagined how easily new words are formed in the English language? If not, let us introduce you to prefix words. These are multi-syllable additions to the beginning of base words to modify their meaning. For example, look in the previous sentence how perfectly the prefix 'multi' goes with 'syllable' to create a new word.
In this blog, we will dive deep into the ocean of prefix words in English and their uses across different contexts with the help of some examples. So, continue reading and add something new to your English Grammar knowledge.
Table of Contents
A prefix is a letter or a set of letters connected at the beginning of a base word to transform its general meaning. For a better understanding of prefix words, we can look at the most basic example of the word 'prefix' itself. The word starts with a "pre-", which is a commonly used prefix. Examples of other words include prepare, preview and more.
These words are a crucial part of English grammar and are commonly used in everyday conversation. The prefixes are one of the two affixes that are found in English grammar. Therefore, prefix and suffix words become important to understand. It may help you expand your vocabulary and comprehension.
Just like learning prefix words in English is effortless, understanding when to use them can enhance your understanding of the topic. So, let's look at some meaningful uses of Prefixes.
In English grammar, one of the most common uses of prefixes is to trim phrases into single words and make conversation more logical and meaningful. Let's understand this with an example.
Look how the prefix "self" made the sentence more logical and sound.
The use of prefix words is also helpful and valuable in academic fields. You can use a prefix word to categorise between subjects; confused, right. Let's understand with the help of examples.
Isn't it amazing that you can also use prefixes to create a word opposite to the base word? Yes, you read it right, we can use some prefix words for creating opposites. Prefixes like 'un', 'in', 'non', and 'anti' can change adjectives to their opposite meanings. Let's understand this with some examples.
With these examples, it is quite explanatory that prefix words are used to make an antonym or opposite word. But, have you noticed above, in the last example, we have used a hyphen to add a prefix word? If so, now you might be wondering when to add a hyphen and when to avoid it. No worries, continue reading to get answers to your questions.
Also Read About: degree of comparison
Until now, you might have figured out the meaning of prefixes and when to use them in English. However, the most confusing part is when to use hyphens after them. In simple terms, there are a few prefix words that use hyphens, while some don't use them. So, let's look at some rules to understand in detail.
In English Grammar, there are more than 100 prefix words that are used to get a new word. So, to enhance your understanding of the topic, let us look at the commonly used prefix words list in English grammar.
Some examples of 'in 'prefix are -
Some examples of 'dis' prefix include-
A list of words having 'un' prefixes are
Some of the words having 'anti' are:
Some examples of 'im' prefix are -
The list of words having 'miss' as a prefix is:
Some examples of words having 'pre' as a prefix are:
A list of words with 'sub' as a prefix is:
Examples of words having 'post' as a prefix are:
Some examples of words with the prefix 'multi' are:
Also Learn: Synonyms
While you have understood the prefix words meaning with their uses in various contexts, it’s time to check your knowledge with the given exercises below.
In this exercise, you have to complete the sentences using an appropriate prefix.
Answer for Exercise 1
In the exercise, you have been given a prefix in one column and base words in another column, your task is to match the prefix with a suitable base word to create a new term.
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
|---|---|
| Dis- | Happy |
| In- | Appointed |
| Dis- | Organised |
| Re- | Complete |
| Un- | Think |
| Pre- | Appear |
| Im- | Understanding |
| In- | Fix |
| Mis- | Appropriate |
| Re- | Possible |
Answer for Exercise 2
To sum up, prefix words are crucial grammar elements that allow us to alter the meaning of existing words. Learning the use of prefixes can be of great help to you because they expand language, and enhance understanding. Further, by solving the given practice worksheet, it will be ensured that all your doubts related to the topic are cleared. Additionally, to learn important grammar elements like consonants, prepositions and more or to enhance your understanding of the English language, you can explore our other blogs or connect with our experts for free. So, go ahead and enjoy learning.
A prefix is a short syllable added to the beginning of a word to modify its meaning. On the other hand, the suffix is also a short syllable but it is added to the end of a base word. Together, both are categorised as affixes in English grammar.
In general terms, prefix words do not change the part of speech of a word. Prefixes only modify the meaning of the word.
Yes, prefixes are of great use in day-to-day conversations. While they are a common part of the English language, people use these words without even noticing much.
The best way to learn prefixes is to explore various learning activities like engaging in interactive notebooks. Reading new texts will help you discover new prefixes.
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