Prefixes Com- and Con-

What do the prefixes com- and con- mean?

A. Together B. Against C. Before D. After

Answer:

The correct answer is A. Together. The prefix "com-" signifies coming together or being joined, while the prefix "con-" implies opposition or conflict.

Prefixes are word parts added to the beginning of a word to change its meaning. In the case of "com-" and "con-," they have distinct meanings that can alter the interpretation of the root word they are attached to.

Com- means "together" or "with." It indicates the idea of coming together or being joined in some way. An example of this is in the word "compression," where the prefix "com-" implies the act of pressing or squeezing together.

Con- means "against" or "opposite." It suggests opposition or conflict. An illustration of this can be seen in the word "conjunctiva," where the prefix "con-" indicates the connection or joining of the conjunctiva, a thin membrane that covers the inner surface of the eyelids and the white part of the eye.

Understanding these prefixes can help enhance your vocabulary and comprehension of words that contain them. By knowing their meanings, you can interpret the context of a word more accurately.