Knowing prefixes or suffixes word parts can greatly help you in ______________________ words you don’t know
deciphering
Knowing prefixes or suffixes can greatly help you in decoding or understanding words you don’t know. When encountering an unfamiliar word, you can break it down into its root word, prefixes, and suffixes to gain insight into its meaning. Here's how you can use prefixes and suffixes to decipher unknown words:
1. Identify prefixes: A prefix is a word part that is attached to the beginning of a root word to change its meaning. Common prefixes include "un-" (not), "re-" (again), "dis-" (opposite), and "pre-" (before). By recognizing these prefixes, you can deduce the new meaning of the word. For example, if you come across the word "unhappy," you can infer that "un-" negates the root word "happy," resulting in the opposite meaning of "not happy."
2. Recognize suffixes: A suffix is a word part that is added to the end of a root word to modify its meaning or function. Examples of suffixes include "-able" (capable of), "-er" (one who), "-less" (without), and "-tion" (act of). By understanding these suffixes, you can understand the role the word plays in a sentence or its grammatical function. For instance, if you encounter the word "teacher," you can deduce that the suffix "-er" modifies the root word "teach" to mean "one who teaches."
By combining the meanings of the prefixes, suffixes, and root words, you can decipher unfamiliar words and better comprehend their definitions. Regular exposure to prefixes and suffixes can expand your vocabulary and enhance your ability to understand unfamiliar words.