2. prefix
• A prefix is a group of letters
added to the beginning of a word.
• A prefix changes the meaning of
the word, but NOT the part of
speech.
3. UN is a prefix that means “not.”
It changes the meaning of a word to
the opposite.
*However, the part of speech has
not changed. happy is an
adjective, and unhappy remains an
adjective.
4. MIS is a prefix that means “bad or
wrong.” It changes the meaning of a
word to a negative one.
*However, the part of speech has
not changed. behave is a verb, and
misbehave remains a verb.
5. suffix
• A suffix is a group of letters
added to the end of a word.
• A suffix changes the part of
speech of the word, but NOT the
meaning.
6. -NESS is a suffix that changes an
adjective to a noun.
*The meaning has not really changed here.
Instead, the different word forms are
used differently in sentences
I am happy. (happy = adjective)
Happiness is important in life. (happiness = noun)
7. -FUL is a suffix that changes a
noun or verb to an adjective.
*The meaning has not really changed here.
Instead, the different word forms are
used differently in sentences
I want peace for this world. (peace = noun)
This beach is so peaceful. (peaceful= adjective)
8. Why is it important to learn
prefixes and suffixes?
• Knowing prefixes can help you
analyze and understand the
meaning of new words. It can
help expand your vocabulary.
• Knowing suffixes and learning
how to use different word forms
will help your grammar and
writing.
9. Practice:
Go to our class website to get more
practice with prefixes and suffixes.
Remember . . .
