Words with un-, dis-, in-, im- and non-

Key Notes:-

Prefix Meanings:

• un-: indicates not or opposite (e.g., undo, unclear).
• dis-: indicates opposite or absence (e.g., disagree, disappear).
• in-: often means not or the opposite of (e.g., incapable, incomplete).
• im-: usually means not or opposite (e.g., impossible, imperfect).
• non-: means not or the absence of (e.g., nonstop, nonfiction).

Examples:

• Un-: Unhappy, uncertain, untidy.
• Dis-: Dislike, disconnect, disagree.
• In-: Inactive, illegal, incomplete.
• Im-: Impossible, immature, imbalance.
• Non-: Nonexistent, nonviolent, nonverbal.

Word Formation:

• Discuss how adding these prefixes changes the meaning of the base word (e.g., do → undo, appear → disappear).
• Explore how these prefixes often indicate negation or reversal.

Examples and Context:

• Provide a variety of examples in different contexts to illustrate usage (e.g., ineffective, dishonest, inactive).
• Encourage students to identify and analyze these prefixes in texts they read.

Word Patterns:

• Highlight common patterns and exceptions (e.g., some words use “in-” instead of “im-” for negation, like “inactive” vs. “impossible”).

Language Exploration:

• Discuss how these prefixes contribute to the richness and flexibility of the English language.
• Explore how prefixes can change the emotional or descriptive tone of words (e.g., unhappy vs. sad).

Application in Writing:

• Encourage students to use these prefixes consciously in their writing to convey specific meanings or nuances.
• Discuss how understanding prefixes enhances vocabulary and communication skills.

Let’s practice!