Prefixes and Suffixes
⭐ MasteredA prefix goes at the start of a word (un-happy), a suffix at the end (care-less). They change the meaning.
"Unbelievable" has both a prefix and a suffix.
All about Prefixes and Suffixes
A prefix is a group of letters added to the beginning of a word to change its meaning, such as un- in unhappy. A suffix is added to the end, such as -less in careless.
Learning common prefixes and suffixes helps you work out the meaning of new words. Re- means again, pre- means before, and -ful means full of, so a careful person is full of care.
A suffix goes at the end of a word and can change its type or meaning, such as the -ful in helpful or the -ly in quickly.
Un means not, pre means before, and -er often means someone who does something, such as a teacher.
🎮 Try it yourself!
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👀 What the animation shows
This animation shows a root word with prefixes added to the front and suffixes added to the end. Watch how each addition changes the meaning of the word.
Real-life uses of Prefixes and Suffixes
- Working out the meaning of unfamiliar words while reading
- Improving spelling by recognising word parts
- Building a bigger vocabulary across school subjects
Frequently asked questions about Prefixes and Suffixes
What does the prefix "un-" mean?
Not or the opposite of, as in unkind (not kind) or unlock (the opposite of lock).
What does the suffix "-ly" do?
It often turns an adjective into an adverb, as in quick to quickly.
What is a root word?
The main part of a word that carries its core meaning, such as "port" in transport and portable.