What are prefixes?
Prefixes are word parts added to the beginning of a base word. A prefix changes the meaning of the word but does not change the word’s spelling rules.
Examples:
- happy → unhappy
- heat → reheat
- kind → unkind
Note
The prefix comes at the beginning of the word and stays the same in spelling.
Common prefixes you should know
Learning common prefixes helps you spell and understand many new words.
Common Prefixes:
- un- (means not): unsafe, untie
- re- (means again): replay, reread
- pre- (means before): preview, preheat
- dis- (means not or opposite): dislike, disconnect
Note
Knowing what a prefix means can help you understand the whole word.
Spelling rules for prefixes
When adding a prefix, the base word usually keeps its original spelling.
Examples:
- do → redo (the word do does not change)
- like → dislike
- pack → unpack
Note
Do not drop letters from the base word when adding a prefix.
Using prefixes in sentences
Prefixes can change the meaning of a word in a sentence.
Examples:
- She will reread the story.
- The glass is unbreakable.
- We had a pregame meeting.
Note
Read the sentence carefully to check that the prefix makes sense.
Tips for spelling words with prefixes
Breaking a word into parts can help you spell it correctly.
Steps:
- Say the prefix aloud
- Say the base word
- Put the parts together
Note
If a word looks long, check for a prefix you recognize.