English Prefix 'Un-' Quiz

Prefixes are a crucial part of the English language. They are added to the beginning of words to change their meaning. One common prefix is "un-," which negates the meaning of the base word. Let's explore the use of the prefix "un-" in English.

Un-

The prefix "un-" is a common prefix that negates the meaning of the base word. It is often used to indicate the opposite or reverse of something. For example, "unhappy" means not happy, and "undone" means not done. The prefix "un-" is used with both monosyllabic and polysyllabic words.

Monosyllabic Words

Monosyllabic words are words that have only one syllable. When the prefix "un-" is added to a monosyllabic word, it negates the meaning of the base word. For example:

• Unhappy
• Undone
• Unseen
• Unknown
• Unfit

Polysyllabic Words

Polysyllabic words are words that have more than one syllable. When the prefix "un-" is added to a polysyllabic word, it negates the meaning of the base word. The prefix "un-" is added before the vowel in the base word if the word ends in a consonant. For example:

• Uncomfortable
• Unpredictable
• Unnecessary
• Unwilling
• Unusual

Prefix Usage

The prefix "un-" is used in a variety of contexts. It can be used to negate the meaning of an adjective, adverb, noun, or verb. For example:

• Unhappy: Not happy
• Unseen: Not seen
• Unknown: Not known
• Uncomfortable: Not comfortable
• Unpredictable: Not predictable
• Unnecessary: Not necessary
• Unwilling: Not willing
• Unusual: Not usual

The prefix "un-" is a powerful tool in the English language. It allows speakers to express the opposite or reverse of a word or concept. By understanding the use of the prefix "un-," you can expand your vocabulary and communicate more effectively.