Vocabulary: Roots, Prefixes, and Suffixes

The word unpredictable contains the prefix un-, the root predict, and the suffix -able. Explain how these parts work together to create the meaning of the word.

In the sentence, The scientist's hypothesis was later contradicted by the results, use the prefix contra- or counter- idea to explain the meaning of contradicted.

Analyze the word autobiography by identifying its major word parts and explaining its meaning.

The suffix -ize often means to make or to cause to become. Explain the meaning of modernize in the sentence, The city plans to modernize its public transportation system.

The Latin root port means carry. Use this root to explain the meanings of portable, transport, and import.

In the word misinformation, identify the prefix, root or base word, and suffix. Then explain the full meaning of the word.

The root cred means believe. Explain how this root helps you understand the meanings of credible and incredulous.

Choose the best meaning of the word benevolent in this sentence and explain your choice: The benevolent donor paid for every senior's college application fees. The choices are angry, generous, confused, or careless.

The prefix sub- can mean under or below. Explain the meanings of submarine, substandard, and subconscious.

The word retrospective contains the prefix retro-, meaning backward, and the root spect, meaning look. Explain the meaning of retrospective as used in the sentence, The museum opened a retrospective of the artist's early work.

Use the root scrib or script, meaning write, to explain the meanings of manuscript, inscription, and prescription.

Explain how the suffixes -er and -est change the adjective subtle in the sentence, Her argument was subtler than his, but the judge noticed the subtlest point.

The prefix anti- means against. Define antithesis and explain how the prefix helps reveal its meaning.

Break down the word decentralization into meaningful parts and explain what the word means.

Use your knowledge of the root chron, meaning time, to write a clear definition of chronological and use it in an original sentence.