What is prefix?

A prefix is an affix which is placed before the stem of a word. Adding it to the beginning of one word changes it into another word. For example, the word "unhappy" is created by adding the prefix "un-" to the word "happy". Prefixes, like other affixes, are typically bound morphemes.

Here's a breakdown of important aspects of prefixes:

  • Definition: A <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/prefix">prefix</a> is a type of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/affix">affix</a> that is added to the beginning of a root word or stem.

  • Function: Prefixes primarily modify the meaning of the base word. They can express a variety of relationships, including negation, repetition, direction, and degree.

  • Formation: <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/word%20formation">Word formation</a> involves using prefixes in combination with roots to create new words.

  • Examples: Common examples of prefixes in English include "un-" (as in "unhappy"), "re-" (as in "rewrite"), "pre-" (as in "prehistoric"), "dis-" (as in "disagree"), and "anti-" (as in "antifreeze").

  • Impact on meaning: Prefixes drastically impact the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/word%20meaning">word meaning</a>, making words convey different ideas or nuances.