Roots, Prefixes, and Suffixes

Suppose a story mentions a detachable strap. The base detach means take apart or remove. The ending -able tells you that removing the strap is possible. Put both clues together, then try that meaning in the phrase.

Find the part that gives you a clue

A prefix comes at the beginning of a word, a suffix comes at the end, and a root carries a central part of its meaning. In visible, vis points to seeing. In “a visible trail marker,” the word describes a marker you can see.

Some words give you two clues. In unreadable, un- makes the meaning negative and -able suggests something can be done. An unreadable label is a label that cannot be read.

The same letters can have different jobs. In disconnect, dis- suggests undoing a connection. In disagree, it signals a lack of agreement. The whole word and the phrase around it tell you which meaning fits.

Check the clue against the phrase

In “a reusable bottle,” re- suggests again, use is the base, and -able means something can be done. The three parts describe a bottle you can use again. They give you no reason to assume the bottle is made of glass.

Watch how roots and affixes work

Khan Academy uses related words to show how roots and affixes contribute to meaning. Listen for which part stays the same and which part changes the word’s meaning or job.

Preparing for the HSPT? Visit the HSPT Reading study hub for connected reading lessons and flashcards.