12 Common Prefixes and What They Mean

If you’ve studied the English language, then there’s a good chance that you have heard about prefixes. A prefix is a group of letters which can be added to the beginning of a word.

A prefix cannot be used alone, and using one will change the meaning of the word it is attached to. Let’s take a look at some examples:

• I’m uncomfortable with speaking Italian. I need to study and practise more often. [Un- + comfortable = not comfortable]
• The boy felt demotivated after he failed his test. He thought he would get a better grade. [de- + motivated = opposite of motivated]
• Have you watched the new ‘Mission Impossible’ film? Tom Cruise does his own stunts! [Im– + possible = not possible]

There are many prefixes in the English language, but today we’re going to take a look at 12 of the most common ones.

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