Common prefixes

English

Definition

Letter groups added to the beginning of a word to change its meaning. Prefixes are one of the most reliable tools for figuring out unfamiliar words because they consistently modify meaning in predictable ways.

Examples

  • 'un-' (not) → unhappy, unlikely, undo
  • 're-' (again) → rewrite, rebuild, reconsider
  • 'mis-' (wrongly) → misunderstand, misspell, mislead
Key Fact

The four most common prefixes (un-, re-, in-/im-, dis-) appear in nearly 60% of all prefixed English words.

Related Terms

Common suffixes Word parts strategy Word building Root word families

Study This Concept

Practice common prefixes with free review games in these units:

Vocabulary Unit 3: Prefixes and Suffixes