Word -Formation -2

In this blog, we shall look at suffixes in more detail.

Prefix

Here are some prefixes with their usages:

1. Negation Prefixes:

Prefixes like un- , a- , in- , dis- , non-,im-, ir- negate the meaning of the stem by adding the stem meaning into ‘not’, ‘opposite of’, ‘lacking in’. Example: untrue, atypical, incompetent, disparity, non-similar etc.

3. Disparagement Prefixes:

Prefixes like mal-,mis-,pseudo- are called pejorative prefix because they denote the meaning of stem ‘bad’,’ badly’, ‘wrong’, ‘false’. Example: malfunction, misbehavior, pseudo-art etc.

2. Reversal Prefixes:

Prefixes de-, un- only attach with noun or a verb. It produces the meaning ‘reverse of action’ or ‘deprive of’ Example: unclear, depend etc.

4. Prefixes denoting number, degree, rank, size:

Prefix bi-, mono-,semi-,poly- express number ;arch-, co-, extra- express degree; micro, mini denotes size ; super-,sub-,under- express rank .Examples: biannual, monochord, semi-final, polycentric, archaic, super achiever etc.

5. Prefixes expressing time, order, location, attitude:

Time and order: ex- , fore- , pre-, post- .Example: ex-minister, forefather, premature,
post-dated etc.
Location: fore-, inter-, super-, sub-, trans- Example: foreground, sub area etc.

Attitude: pro-, anti-, counter- Example: proactive, anti-Islamic etc.

These were some prefixes which modifies the meaning of stem. You can form more new words using these prefixes. If you know any other usage of prefixes then do share with us or simply write your opinion beneath this blog.

Wishing you success!!!

Regards,

Shipra Srivastava

Team learnwordlist.com

One Response to “Word -Formation -2”

1. arizona on July 15th, 2010 6:04 am

   hi dear teacher.
   I really enjoy ur program,it is both enjoyable &useful.

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