Prefixes and suffixes are word parts added to a base word to change its meaning. A prefix comes at the beginning of a word, and a suffix comes at the end of a word.
Knowing prefixes and suffixes helps you figure out the meaning of new words while reading.
A prefix is a group of letters added to the start of a word that changes its meaning. Prefixes often give clues about direction, time, number, or meaning.
Prefixes never stand alone. They must be attached to a base word.
A suffix is a group of letters added to the end of a word that changes its meaning or how it is used in a sentence.
Suffixes can change a word’s part of speech, such as turning a verb into a noun (teach → teacher).
When prefixes and suffixes are added to base words, the meaning or function of the word changes. This helps create new words that are useful in reading and writing.
Look carefully at the base word and the prefix or suffix to figure out the new meaning.
Practice using words with prefixes and suffixes in sentences to understand their meaning and how they fit in grammar.
Using prefixes and suffixes makes your writing stronger and your vocabulary larger.