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Root Words And Affixes – Quiz 1
Root Words And Affixes Quiz 1 (30 MCQs)
This multiple-choice question set evaluates the ability to identify context clues in sentences and passages, particularly focusing on understanding root words and affixes. It covers skills such as recognizing synonyms, antonyms, and how prefixes and suffixes modify meanings. The questions also test comprehension of word origins and etymology.
Quiz Instructions
Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.
1.
What does the suffix-less mean? As used in such words as:useless or hopeless?
A) Full of.
B) Without.
C) None.
D) The most.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The term "suffix-less" refers to the absence of a suffix, which is a word element added to the end of another word to modify its meaning or grammatical function. In words like "useless" and "hopeless," the prefix "use-" and "hope-" are removed, leaving us with "less," indicating a lack or absence of something.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Full of - Incorrect; this would imply abundance rather than absence.
Option B:
Without - Correct; it means the word lacks a suffix, thus indicating a state of absence or lack.
Option C:
None - While close, "none" implies a complete absence without specifying that it's related to a suffix.
Option D:
The most - Incorrect; this would imply the highest degree rather than absence.
2.
What does the root word hydr mean? As used in such words as:hydration or dehydrate?
A) Water.
B) Small.
C) Shape.
D) Hydrant.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The root word "hydr" means water. This is evident in words like "hydration," which refers to the process of providing the body with sufficient water, and "dehydrate," which means to remove water from something or someone.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. The root word "hydr" relates to water.
Option B:
Incorrect. "Small" is unrelated to the meaning of "hydr."
Option C:
Incorrect. "Shape" has no relation to the meaning of "hydr."
Option D:
Incorrect. "Hydrant" is a related term but does not define the root word's meaning.
3.
Brianna was uncertain about the question, but she gave her answer as though she was sure of it. Which type of context clue is used here?
A) Antonym.
B) Example.
C) Synonym.
D) Definition.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The context clue used in the sentence is an antonym, which means "Brianna was uncertain" (negative) and "she gave her answer as though she was sure of it" (positive) are contrasting words indicating a contradiction. This type of clue helps to understand the meaning by providing opposite meanings.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Antonyms provide contrast, helping to clarify the intended meaning.
Option B:
Incorrect. Examples typically illustrate a concept without direct comparison or contrast.
Option C:
Incorrect. Synonyms offer similar meanings rather than contrasting ones.
Option D:
Incorrect. Definitions directly state the meaning of a word, not its opposite.
4.
What suffix could be added to the word listen to show it happened in the past?
A) Ed.
B) Ful.
C) S.
D) Less.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The suffix "ed" is commonly added to regular verbs in English to indicate past tense, such as changing "listen" to "listened."
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. The "-ed" suffix transforms the verb into its past tense form.
Option B:
Incorrect. The "-ful" suffix is used to indicate a quality or state, e.g., helpful.
Option C:
Incorrect. The "-s" suffix typically indicates third-person singular present tense, e.g., listens.
Option D:
Incorrect. The "-less" suffix means without, e.g., careless.
5.
These are parts of the word that can be added to form a new meaning.
A) Root Words.
B) Affixes.
C) Infix.
D) Punctuations.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Affixes are parts of words that can be added to root words to modify their meaning, such as prefixes (e.g., un- in "unhappy") and suffixes (e.g., -ness in "happiness"). This makes them correct.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Root Words are the core part of a word that carries its primary meaning, but they do not add new meanings on their own.
Option B:
Correct as explained above.
Option C:
Infixes are inserted within words and do not typically modify root words to create new meanings.
Option D:
Punctuations are symbols used in writing, not parts of words that add meaning.
6.
What is the meaning of chrono?
Show Answer
Explanations:
The prefix "chrono" is derived from the Greek word "chronos," meaning time. Therefore, Option B (Time) is correct as it accurately represents the meaning of "chrono."
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Earth - Incorrect; not related to the meaning of "chrono."
Option B:
Time - Correct; directly derived from the Greek word for time.
7.
What type of context clues use similar words to help with the meaning of an unknown word?
A) HDefinitions.
B) Synonyms.
C) Examples.
D) Antonyms.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Context clues that use similar words to help with the meaning of an unknown word are called
synonyms
. Synonyms provide a direct comparison, making it easier for readers to understand unfamiliar terms by relating them to known ones. This method is particularly useful in expanding vocabulary and enhancing comprehension.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
HDefinitions are not directly related to using similar words; they define the word itself.
Option B:
Synonyms use similar or closely related words to provide meaning, making this the correct answer.
Option C:
Examples give context through specific instances rather than using similar words.
Option D:
Antonyms use opposite words which do not help in understanding an unknown word but can contrast it for better comprehension.
8.
Use what you know about root words meaning to match the words with the correct definition. Refer to the root word. Microscope
A) Part of something, split into a hundred pieces.
B) A sequence.
C) An instrument that makes extremely small things look larger.
D) Organisms.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The root word "scope" in "microscope" means to look at or examine, which aligns with the definition of an instrument used for magnification. Therefore, option C is correct as it accurately describes a microscope's function.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This refers to something being divided into pieces, unrelated to magnification.
Option B:
This pertains to sequences or order, not related to microscopes.
Option C:
Correct. Microscope is an instrument that makes small objects appear larger for detailed examination.
Option D:
This refers to organisms, which is unrelated to the function of a microscope.
9.
An Army uniform has symbols on it. These emblems show what the person has done in the Army. What type of context clue is this?
A) Antonym.
B) Example.
C) Synonym.
D) Definition.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The context clue provided in the question is an example, not a synonym. The emblems on the Army uniform are examples that illustrate what the person has accomplished in their service. This aligns with Option B: Example.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Antonym - Incorrect; antonyms provide words with opposite meanings.
Option B:
Example - Correct; emblems are examples showing achievements.
Option C:
Synonym - Incorrect; synonyms provide words with similar meanings, not illustrative symbols.
Option D:
Definition - Incorrect; definitions explain the meaning of a word or term directly.
10.
Read the following sentence from the passage."When I see something beautiful in the store, like this dress, it's irresistible to me."In the word "irresistible, " the prefix "ir-" means
A) Two.
B) Wrong.
C) Again.
D) Not.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The prefix "ir-" in the word "irresistible" means "not." This prefix is used to negate the meaning of the root word, indicating that something cannot be resisted or controlled.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Two - Incorrect. The prefix does not indicate a number.
Option B:
Wrong - Incorrect. While "ir-" can sometimes imply incorrectness in some words, it specifically means "not" here.
Option C:
Again - Incorrect. This prefix would suggest repetition rather than negation.
Option D:
Not - Correct. The prefix "ir-" indicates the absence or negation of resistance to an action or feeling.
11.
What is the meaning of de-?
A) Ill, mistaken.
B) Down, off.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The prefix "de-" in English often indicates a reversal of an action, removal, or separation, which aligns with the meaning "Down, off." For example, in words like "decode" (to break down a code) and "defrost" (to remove frost), it shows that something is being undone or removed.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Ill, mistaken. This option does not accurately describe the meaning of "de-."
Option B:
Down, off. This correctly describes the prefix's function in many English words.
12.
What does the suffix-er mean? As used in such words as:teacher or baker?
A) State of.
B) One who.
C) Full of.
D) Characterized by.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The suffix "-er" in words like "teacher" or "baker" indicates a person who performs an action or has a particular role, such as teaching or baking. This is why option B) One who is correct.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
State of does not fit the meaning conveyed by "-er".
Option B:
Correct - it denotes a person performing an action or occupation.
Option C:
Full of means containing or filled with, which is unrelated to the suffix "-er" in these words.
Option D:
Characterized by describes qualities or features, not roles or people.
13.
Ann-/-enn means .....
A) Hundred.
B) Before.
C) War.
D) Year.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The root word "ann" in "Ann-/-enn" is derived from the Latin word "annus," meaning year. This affix is commonly used to denote a period of time, specifically one year.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Hundred - Incorrect. The root does not relate to the number 100.
Option B:
Before - Incorrect. This prefix typically means "in front of" or "earlier than," not related to time periods.
Option C:
War - Incorrect. There is no direct relation between this root and the concept of war.
Option D:
Year - Correct. The Latin origin "annus" means year, making it the correct answer.
14.
Affixes means to .....
A) Before.
B) Type of root word.
C) Add on.
D) After.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Affixes are linguistic elements added to root words to modify their meaning, change tense, indicate plurality, and so on. The term "add on" accurately describes this process as affixes are indeed attached or added to the root word to create new words.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. "Before" refers to a position in relation to something else, not the action of adding an element.
Option B:
Incorrect. Root words are the core part of a word from which other elements can be added but are not themselves affixes.
Option C:
Correct. Affixes are indeed added to root words to form new words or modify existing ones.
Option D:
Incorrect. "After" implies a sequence of events, whereas affixation is an additive process that can occur before, after, or around the root word.
15.
#2 Part B:Which statement best supports the answer to Part A?
A) Ivan's friends think his idea about watching aquariums is smart.
B) Ivan's friends don't understand his interest in watching aquariums.
C) Ivan's friends like that he watches aquariums for hours.
D) Ivan's friends think watching aquariums is a healthy thing to do.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option B is correct because it directly supports the idea that Ivan's friends do not comprehend his interest in watching aquariums, which aligns with the answer to Part A. This statement highlights a lack of understanding among his peers, making it the best supporting option.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
This suggests agreement or approval from Ivan's friends, which contradicts the notion that they don't understand him.
Option B:
This confirms a lack of understanding among his friends, supporting the answer to Part A.
Option C:
This implies positive reinforcement, not a lack of understanding.
Option D:
This suggests a health benefit, unrelated to the concept of understanding or misunderstanding Ivan's interest.
16.
A form of government that is bicameral has ..... divisions.
A) No.
B) One.
C) Two.
D) Many.
Show Answer
Explanations:
A bicameral form of government has two divisions, which are typically referred to as the upper and lower houses. This structure is designed to provide checks and balances within the legislative process.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. Bicameral means "two-chambered."
Option B:
Incorrect. One division would be a unicameral system, not bicameral.
Option C:
Correct. Bicameral systems have two divisions.
Option D:
Incorrect. Many divisions indicate a polyarchical or multi-chambered system, not bicameral.
17.
Which suffix means 'one who'?
A) -or.
B) -is.
C) -of.
D) -is.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The suffix "-is" is commonly used to form words that denote a person who performs an action, such as "photographer" (one who photographs) or "teacher" (one who teaches). This usage aligns with the claimed correct answer.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
-or is often used to form agent nouns like "actor" (one who acts), but not as frequently for denoting a person performing an action.
Option B:
-is, correct. Used in words like "photographer" and "teacher."
Option C:
-of is typically used to indicate possession or association, such as "lover" (one who loves), but not for denoting a person performing an action.
Option D:
-is is repeated here, confirming the correct answer.
18.
What is the meaning of bi-?
A) Before.
B) Two or twice.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The prefix "bi-" in English typically means "two" or "twice." This is derived from the Latin word "bis," meaning "again" or "double."
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Incorrect. The term "before" does not apply to the prefix "bi-."
Option B:
Correct. Examples include "bicycle" (two wheels) and "biannual" (twice a year).
19.
Define the prefix "re"
A) Under.
B) Not.
C) Again.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The prefix "re" in English often indicates an action that is being repeated or done again. For example, in the word "redo," it means to do something over again. This aligns with Option C: Again.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Under - Incorrect; "under" does not relate to repetition.
Option B:
Not - Incorrect; "not" indicates negation, not repetition.
Option C:
Again - Correct; "re" often means again or repeat.
Option D:
None of above - Incorrect; Option C is correct.
20.
Use what you know about root words meaning to match the words with the correct definition. Refer to the root word. Relocate
A) Relating to teeth.
B) To change the place of something or someone.
C) An instrument.
D) To go again.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The root word "locate" means to find the position of something. The prefix "re-" in "relocate" indicates doing an action again or once more. Therefore, "relocate" means to change the place of something or someone.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Relating to teeth - Incorrect; no connection with the root word.
Option B:
To change the place of something or someone - Correct; accurately describes "relocate" based on its root and prefix meanings.
Option C:
An instrument - Incorrect; not related to the meaning of "relocate."
Option D:
To go again - Partially correct but less precise than Option B, as it does not fully capture the concept of changing place.
21.
Bell or belli means .....
A) Year.
B) Hundred.
C) Before.
D) War.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The root word "bell" is derived from the Latin term "bello," which means "war." This can be seen in words like "belligerent," meaning someone who fights or is hostile, and "belligerence," indicating a disposition to fight.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Year. Incorrect. The root word does not relate to time.
Option B:
Hundred. Incorrect. The root word is not associated with numbers.
Option C:
Before. Incorrect. This prefix or suffix has a different meaning and usage.
Option D:
War. Correct. "Bell" in its etymological sense means war, making this the right choice.
22.
Define the suffix "ation"
A) Action or process.
B) Possible.
C) Relating to.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The suffix "-ation" typically denotes an action, process, or state resulting from that action or process. For example, in "education," it indicates the act of educating or the condition of being educated.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. It often signifies an action or a process.
Option B:
Incorrect. "-ation" does not imply possibility.
Option C:
Incorrect. It is not related to the subject or object of a sentence.
Option D:
Incorrect. There is a correct answer among the options provided.
23.
Define the prefix "sub"
A) Under.
B) In.
C) Back.
D) None of above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The prefix "sub" in English typically means "under," which aligns with the claimed correct answer (A). This prefix is used to indicate something that is beneath, below, or underneath another thing. Examples include "submarine" (beneath the sea) and "substitute" (replacing someone).
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. The prefix "sub" means "under."
Option B:
Incorrect. "In" is not the meaning of "sub."
Option C:
Incorrect. "Back" is not the meaning of "sub."
Option D:
Incorrect. There is a correct answer among the options provided.
24.
Comparing something opposite is using what type of clues?
A) Antonyms.
B) Examples.
C) Definitions.
D) Synonyms.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Comparing something opposite involves using antonyms, which are words that have opposite meanings. This technique is often used to highlight differences and create contrast in writing or speech.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Antonyms are directly related to opposites.
Option B:
Examples provide specific instances but do not inherently involve opposites.
Option C:
Definitions explain the meaning of words, not their opposites.
Option D:
Synonyms are words with similar meanings, which is opposite to what is needed for comparing opposites.
25.
Which of the following is a suffix that means 'pertaining to'?
A) -less.
B) -ful.
C) -al.
D) -able.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The suffix
-al
is commonly used to form adjectives that indicate a relationship or pertinence to something, such as in "legal" (pertaining to law) or "metal" (pertaining to metal). This makes option C the correct answer.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
-less means without or lacking. Example: helpless.
Option B:
-ful means full of or characterized by. Example: hopeful.
Option C:
-al means pertaining to or relating to. Example: legal (pertaining to law).
Option D:
-able means capable of or tending to. Example: readable.
26.
Night is the time when many animals forage, or search, for food. Which type of context clue is being used?
A) Synonym.
B) Antonym.
C) Example.
D) Definition.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The context clue "Night is the time when many animals forage, or search, for food" provides a definition of the term "forage." The phrase "or search" directly explains what "forage" means, making this an example of a definition.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Synonym - Not applicable as no synonym is provided.
Option B:
Antonym - No antonyms are given to contrast the term "forage."
Option C:
Example - While an example of what foraging involves (searching) is given, it's more accurately described as a definition.
Option D:
Definition - Correct. The phrase directly defines "forage" by explaining its meaning in relation to searching for food.
27.
Which of the following is a suffix that means 'one who'?
A) -of.
B) -or.
C) -is.
D) -is.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The suffix
-is
is commonly used to form words that denote a person who performs an action, such as
doctor
(one who treats) and
teacher
(one who teaches).
Option Analysis:
Option A:
-of does not typically indicate 'one who'.
Option B:
-or can denote an agent, but is less common than -is for this purpose. Examples include
actor
and
director
.
Option C:
-is correctly denotes 'one who', as seen in words like
doctor
and
teacher
.
Option D:
-is is repeated, making it invalid. It does denote 'one who'.
28.
What does the prefix inter-mean? As used in such words as:interstate or interrupt?
A) Not.
B) Above.
C) Between.
D) Opposite.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The prefix "inter-" means "between" or "among." This is why it is the correct answer for both "interstate," which refers to a highway connecting states, and "interrupt," meaning to break the continuity of something by stopping or pausing it.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Not - Incorrect. The prefix does not mean "not."
Option B:
Above - Incorrect. The prefix does not indicate a position above.
Option C:
Between - Correct. This accurately describes the meaning of "inter-."
Option D:
Opposite - Incorrect. The prefix does not mean "opposite" or "against."
29.
Iter means .....
A) Against.
B) Within.
C) Between.
D) Again.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The root word "iter" means "to go through again" or "again." This is derived from the Latin verb "itare," which means to go through or travel, and it forms the basis for many English words related to repetition or going through a process again.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Against. Incorrect.
Option B:
Within. Incorrect.
Option C:
Between. Incorrect.
Option D:
Again. Correct, as "iter" means to go through again or repeat a process.
30.
What is the meaning of impossible in paragraph 3?
A) Something that cannot be done.
B) Something that can be done again.
C) Something that small children can do.
D) Something that cannot be seen.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The word "impossible" in paragraph 3 refers to something that cannot be done, which aligns with Option A. This term is used to describe actions or situations that are beyond human capability or current technological limitations.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Implies an action or situation that cannot be accomplished.
Option B:
Incorrect. Suggests something that can be repeated, which contradicts the meaning of impossible.
Option C:
Incorrect. Refers to actions small children can perform, not what is unachievable or beyond their reach.
Option D:
Incorrect. Implies something invisible, which is unrelated to the concept of impossibility in this context.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are root words and affixes?
Root words are the core part of a word that carries its primary meaning, while affixes are added to these roots to modify their meanings or grammatical functions. Together, they form new words.
How do root words and affixes help in understanding vocabulary?
Understanding root words and affixes helps in recognizing patterns and meanings, making it easier to deduce the definitions of unfamiliar words through context clues or synonyms.
Can you explain how contrast in context clues can be used with root words and affixes?
Contrast in context clues involves looking at the surrounding text to find words that provide a comparison or contrast, which can help clarify the meaning of unfamiliar terms by showing their opposite meanings.
Why is it important to learn root words and affixes?
Learning root words and affixes enhances vocabulary skills, improves reading comprehension, and makes it easier to understand complex terms in various subjects.
How can I apply my knowledge of root words and affixes?
You can apply this knowledge by breaking down unfamiliar words into their roots and affixes, using context clues to determine meanings, and expanding your vocabulary through regular practice.