Prefix and Suffix in English Grammar
In English grammar, prefixes and suffixes are groups of letters added to the beginning or end of a word to change its meaning. They play an important role in word formation and help expand vocabulary.
Understanding prefixes and suffixes makes it easier to understand the meaning of unfamiliar words.
What is a Prefix?
A prefix is a group of letters added to the beginning of a word to change its meaning.
Examples:
- Un + happy = Unhappy
- Re + write = Rewrite
- Dis + agree = Disagree
The prefix changes the meaning of the original word.
Common Prefixes and Their Meanings
| Prefix | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Un- | Not | Unhappy |
| Re- | Again | Rewrite |
| Dis- | Opposite | Disagree |
| Pre- | Before | Preview |
| Mis- | Wrongly | Misunderstand |
| Sub- | Under | Submarine |
| Inter- | Between | International |
| Anti- | Against | Antisocial |
What is a Suffix?
A suffix is a group of letters added to the end of a word to change its grammatical function or meaning.
Examples:
- Teach + er = Teacher
- Happy + ness = Happiness
- Quick + ly = Quickly
Common Suffixes and Their Meanings
| Suffix | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| -er | Person who does something | Teacher |
| -ness | State or quality | Happiness |
| -ly | Manner | Quickly |
| -ful | Full of | Helpful |
| -less | Without | Careless |
| -ment | Result or condition | Development |
| -tion | Action or process | Education |
| -able | Capable of | Readable |
Difference Between Prefix and Suffix
| Prefix | Suffix |
|---|---|
| Added at the beginning of a word | Added at the end of a word |
| Changes the meaning of a word | Often changes grammatical form |
| Example: Unhappy | Example: Happiness |
Examples of Prefix and Suffix in Words
- Un + kind = Unkind
- Re + play = Replay
- Help + ful = Helpful
- Care + less = Careless
Importance for Competitive Exams
Questions based on prefixes and suffixes frequently appear in competitive examinations such as PGTRB, NET, SET, SSC, and UPSC. Understanding word formation helps students identify the meaning of unfamiliar words.
Example Question:
What is the meaning of the prefix “anti”?
- Before
- Against
- After
- Between
Correct Answer: Against
Conclusion
Prefixes and suffixes are essential components of English vocabulary. They help create new words, expand language skills, and improve comprehension. Learning them is especially useful for students preparing for competitive examinations.
Quick Revision Table
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Prefix | Letters added at the beginning of a word |
| Suffix | Letters added at the end of a word |
| Example Prefix | Unhappy |
| Example Suffix | Happiness |
Note: AdSense Auto Ads will automatically appear on this page.
Let me know your doubts