Forms such as –ing (as in writing), un- (as in unhappy) and -ful (as in beautiful) are called affixes. The form to which an affix is attached is called its stem. The affix which is added to the beginning of a stem is called a prefix. The affix which is added to the end of a stem is called the suffix. Thus in the word unmistakable, mistake is the stem, un- is the prefix and –able is the suffix. In the word disqualified, qualify is the stem, dis- is the prefix and –ed is the suffix.

Exercise

Make five words by using the suffix –ty.

1. State of being free from danger (S……………………)

2. Readiness to cause suffering to others (Cr………………………)

3. State of being higher in rank (S…………………………)

4. Not being available in sufficient quantity (Sc……………………….)

5. Being able to do things (Ca……………………….)

Answers

1. Safety; 2. Cruelty; 3. Superiority; 4. Scarcity; 5. Capacity

Make five words by using the suffix –fy

1. To make or become clear (Cl………………………)

2. To arrange in classes of groups (Cl………………………….)

3. To show that there is a good reason for something (Ju……………………)

4. To check the truth and accuracy of something (Ve……………………..)

5. To form into one (Un………………………….)

Answers

1. Clarify; 2. Classify; 3. Justify; 4. Verify; 5. Unify

Make five words by using the suffix –ate

1. To make land suitable for growing crops (Cu…………………………)

2. To supply land with water (Ir…………………………)

3. To suggest that someone should be given a job. (No……………………..)

4. To work together (Co…………………………)

5. Unable to read or write (Ill…………………………..)

Answers

1. Cultivate; 2. Irrigate; 3. Nominate; 4. Cooperate; 5. Illiterate