Word Formation

Front

What is a prefix?

Back

A prefix is a group of letters added to the beginning of a word to change its meaning.

Front

What is a suffix?

Back

A suffix is a group of letters added to the end of a word to change its meaning.

Front

What is a root word?

Back

A root word is the base part of a word that gives it meaning, to which prefixes and suffixes can be added.

Front

What does the prefix 'un-' mean?

Back

The prefix 'un-' means 'not' or 'opposite of', as in 'unhappy' (not happy).

Front

What does the prefix 're-' mean?

Back

The prefix 're-' means 'again' or 'back', as in 'replay' (play again).

Front

What does the prefix 'pre-' mean?

Back

The prefix 'pre-' means 'before', as in 'preheat' (heat before).

Front

What does the suffix '-less' mean?

Back

The suffix '-less' means 'without', as in 'careless' (without care).

Front

What does the suffix '-ness' mean?

Back

The suffix '-ness' turns an adjective into a noun, indicating a state or quality, as in 'happiness' (the state of being happy).

Front

Can a word have more than one prefix?

Back

Yes, a word can have more than one prefix, such as 'unbelievable' (un- + believe + -able).

Front

Can a word have more than one suffix?

Back

Yes, a word can have more than one suffix, such as 'happiness' (happy + -ness).