English Prefixes, Definition and Examples;
PREFIXES
Prefixes are used to change the meaning of a word. A syllable word or group of syllables added to the beginning of a word. Prefixes help to add meaning to words and make it possible to create new words that are easily understood everywhere. Understanding a few prefix examples will help you understand the logic of new words and use them appropriately.
For example, consider the prefix de-. This prefix means getting something back. It is usually added to a verb. You can then activate the verb. Likewise, you can parse, add to other verbs.
Negative Prefixes
Some prefixes translate the original meaning of the new word into its opposite meaning.
For example:
contra
Examples: contradict, contraindicated, contrarian
de
Examples: deactivate, degrade, de-icer
dis
Examples: disagree, disapprove, disconnect
il-/im-/in-/ir
Examples: illegal, impermeable, injustice, irreversible
non
Examples: nonexistent, nonfiction, non-negotiable,
un
Examples: unkind, unresponsive, unruly
- In addition, some prefixes add new meanings to the word. Repeat, negative, positive, etc. It is always important to know the basic meaning of the sentence. With the prefix to the word, the sentence gains meaning.
Other Common Prefixes
There are many prefixes that don’t negate the original meaning of the root word, but rather alter it in unique ways, such as expressing relationships of place, time or manner.
ante-
Examples: antebellum, antediluvian
circum-
Examples: circumnavigate, circumscribe, circumvent
co-/com-/con-
Examples: coexist, commiserate, contact
en
Examples: encase, endow, envelope
ex-/exo-
Examples: exhale, extend, exoskeleton
extra
Examples: extracurricular, extraterrestrial, extravert
hyper
Examples: hyperactive, hyperspace, hypertension,
inter-
Examples: interactive, intersect, interstate
mega
Examples: megaphone, megaton
micro
Examples: microcosm, microphone, microscope
mid
Examples: midnight, midseason, midterm
mis
Examples: misappropriate, misunderstand, misuse
mono
Examples: monogamous, monotone
over
Examples: overcook, overdone, overwrought
post
Examples: postdate, postscript, post-war
pre-
Examples: prefix, preliminary, preschool
re-
Examples: reconsider, re-evaluate,
rewrite / semi
Examples: semiconductor, semester,
sub-
Examples: subjugate, submarine,
