Add prefixes to the following words to make opposites
How to Make Opposite Words Using Prefixes
In English, we can often change the meaning of a word to its opposite by adding a prefix. A prefix is a group of letters added before a word. Common prefixes used to form opposites are:
- un- (e.g., unhappy)
- in-, im-, il-, ir- (e.g., incorrect, impossible, illegal, irregular)
- dis- (e.g., disagree)
- non- (e.g., nonverbal)
Let’s look at each word and make its opposite by adding a suitable prefix. Then, we’ll see three more examples using the same prefix pattern.
(a) Comfortable → Uncomfortable
- Prefix used: un-
- Meaning: Not comfortable
More examples:
- Happy → Unhappy
- Fair → Unfair
- Safe → Unsafe
(b) Necessary → Unnecessary
- Prefix used: un-
- Meaning: Not necessary
More examples:
- Wanted → Unwanted
- Known → Unknown
- Clear → Unclear
(c) Like → Dislike
- Prefix used: dis-
- Meaning: To not like
More examples:
- Agree → Disagree
- Appear → Disappear
- Connect → Disconnect
(d) Valid → Invalid
- Prefix used: in-
- Meaning: Not valid
More examples:
- Active → Inactive
- Complete → Incomplete
- Visible → Invisible
(e) Regard → Disregard
- Prefix used: dis-
- Meaning: To have no regard or concern
More examples:
- Obey → Disobey
- Trust → Distrust
- Approve → Disapprove