Explain how root words help in forming new words. Provide five root words with their derived words and meanings.

Understand the Problem

The question asks for an explanation of how root words contribute to the formation of new words. It also requires providing five examples of root words along with their derived words and meanings to illustrate the concept.

Answer

Root words carry the core meaning of a word. Prefixes and suffixes are added to root words to create new words. Examples: `port` (to carry) forms `transport`, `scrib` (to write) forms `scribble`, `ject` (to throw) forms `eject`, `vis` (to see) forms `visible`, `form` (shape) forms `conform`.

Root words are the most basic part of a word and carry the core meaning. By adding prefixes and suffixes to root words, we can create new words. Understanding root words helps in deciphering the meaning of unfamiliar words.

Here are five root words with derived words and meanings:

Root: port
- Meaning: to carry
- Derived Words:
  - transport (carry across)
  - export (carry out)
  - import (carry in)
Root: scrib/script
- Meaning: to write
- Derived Words:
  - scribble (to write carelessly)
  - script (written text)
  - describe (write about)
Root: ject
- Meaning: to throw
- Derived Words:
  - eject (throw out)
  - inject (throw in)
  - project (throw forward)
Root: vis/vid
- Meaning: to see
- Derived Words:
  - visible (able to be seen)
  - video (recording of moving visual images)
  - provide (to see beforehand)
Root: form
- Meaning: shape
- Derived Words:
  - conform (to be similar to the shape)
  - reform (to improve the shape)
  - transform (change shape)

More Information

Understanding root words, prefixes, and suffixes is a powerful tool for vocabulary building and reading comprehension. It allows you to decode unfamiliar words and grasp their meanings more easily.

Tips

A common mistake is to confuse root words with base words. A base word can stand alone, while a root word usually requires prefixes or suffixes to form a complete word in English.