Prefixes

Que 1. What is Prefix?

Prefix is a group of letters (sometimes a single letter) which is added at the start of a base word to alter its meaning.
Example of a prefix: Use of the letters “hemi-” before the word ”sphere” to create a new word hemisphere which means half of a sphere.

Que 2. How do Prefixes work?

Prefixes work by getting added to a base word and changing the meaning of it. They are an integral part of the English language. They are always added before a word. Examples:
1. Please “postpone” the meeting.
2. The animals and birds “coexist” in an ecosystem.
3. She is “riding” a bicycle.

Que 3. How to use a Prefix?

It is important to understand the way prefixes are used. It should be noted that while adding a prefix to a base word, there should not be a change in the spelling of either the base word or the prefix. For example: unkind (combination of “un-” and “kind”). Even if it leads to double consonants, the same rule should be followed. Example: coordinate, irresponsible.

There are also certain rules that need to be followed while using hyphen to join prefixes with words. Hyphens are used when prefixes are added to proper nouns. Example: pro-Nazi, un-Indian, trans-Pacific.

Hyphens are required when the prefix ends with a vowel and the base word starts with the same vowel. Common examples include re-enter, semi-industrious, semi-independent. However, English is a language of exceptions and for some cases, if the vowel is “o” for both the prefix and the word, then the hyphen is not required. For example: coordinate, cooperate.

When the prefix ends with a vowel and the base word starts with a different vowel, hyphens are not required. For example: hydroelectricity, proactive, reactivate.

Que 4. How can we learn Prefixes?

One of the best ways to learn prefixes is by creating a list of the most popular prefixes and studying them.
Taking online tests, quizzes can also go a long way to help you get accustomed to prefixes. Sources of visual entertainments like movies, videos, tv series can also aid you to learn prefixes. Keep the subtitles on if it is difficult to understand and interpret the audio.

Que 5. What are the advantages of using Prefix?

Prefixes have the following advantages:

1. It can shorten a phrase into a single word. For example, instead of saying “He is showing way too much confidence than required”, we can simply say “He is overconfident”.
2. They can be used to mean the opposite of any word. Example: use- misuse, correct- incorrect.

Prefixes in English Grammar : Definition, Examples & How to use them?

In the English language, there are times when we come across a one-syllable or a group of letters being added to a base word to alter its meaning. For example, let us then consider the word “possible”. Adding the letters “im-” before it creates a new word called impossible which means the opposite of possible.

Such types of syllables or groups of letters (im-) are called prefixes and they play a key role in English grammar. Knowledge of prefixes helps enhance vocabulary and comprehension.

Table of Content

What is a Prefix in English?
Definitions of a Prefix
List of 35 Most Common Prefixes in English
When to Use Prefixes?
Prefixes Examples
Writing Prefixes With Hyphens
How to Learn Prefixes in English?
Prefixes Exercises