Prefixes are groups of letters added to the beginning of a word to change its meaning.
A prefix does not stand alone; it always comes before a base word.
The prefix dis- usually means “not” or “the opposite of.” It can also mean “away” or “apart.”
Think of dis- as showing something is opposite or reversed.
The prefix mis- means “wrong” or “badly.” When added to a word, it shows that something was not done the right way.
Use mis- to show an action or thought that is incorrect.
The prefix pre- means “before.” It shows that something happens earlier in time or order.
Think of pre- as giving you a head start or happening ahead of time.
When you add prefixes to words, you change their meaning. Knowing the meaning of a prefix helps you spell and understand new words.
When you see dis-, mis-, or pre-, ask yourself: does it mean “not,” “wrong,” or “before”?