Use words as clues to the meanings of Greek and Latin roots

Use words as clues to the meanings of Greek and Latin roots by Delta publications

Key Notes :

What are Roots, Prefixes, and Suffixes?

Before diving into roots, let’s clarify some key vocabulary terms:

  • Root: The core part of a word that carries its basic meaning. For example, ‘port’ in ‘transport’.
  • Prefix: A word part added to the beginning of a root to modify its meaning. For example, ‘trans-‘ in ‘transport’.
  • Suffix: A word part added to the end of a root to modify its meaning or grammatical function. For example, ‘-able’ in ‘portable’.
Greek and Latin Roots: Examples and Clues

Let’s explore some common Greek and Latin roots, and how we can use English words containing them to figure out their meanings.

Root: port (Latin)

Possible Meanings: Carry		Examples:

Transport: To carry something from one place to another.
Portable: Able to be carried easily.
Export: To carry goods out of a country.
Import: To carry goods into a country.

Explanation: By examining these words, we see that port relates to the idea of carrying or moving something.
Root: graph (Greek)

Possible Meanings: Write		Examples:

Autograph: A signature, something written by oneself.
Photograph: A picture made using light; from photos (light) and graph (write).
Paragraph: A section of writing dealing with one topic.

Explanation: These examples demonstrate that graph is connected to the act of writing or recording information.
Root: spect (Latin)

Possible Meanings: Look		Examples:

Inspect: To look at something carefully.
Spectacles: Eyeglasses, used for looking.
Respect: To look up to someone; to admire them.
Spectator: Someone who looks at an event.

Explanation: In each of these words, spect conveys the idea of seeing or observing.
Root: tele (Greek)

Possible Meanings: Distant, Far		Examples:

Telephone: A device for transmitting sound over a distance.
Television: A device for seeing things from a distance.
Telescope: An instrument for viewing distant objects.

Explanation: The word tele hints at something that is far away.
Tips for Using Word Clues

Here are some helpful tips to decipher word meanings:

  • Identify the Root: Look for familiar root within the word.
  • Consider the Context: How is the word used in the sentence? The context can help narrow down the meaning.
  • Look for Prefixes and Suffixes: These can modify the root’s meaning.
  • Think of Related Words: Are there other words you know with the same root? This can give you clues.
  • Use a Dictionary: If you’re still unsure, consult a dictionary to confirm the meaning.
Practice Makes Perfect!

The more you practice identifying roots and analyzing words, the better you’ll become at understanding their meanings. Keep an eye out for Greek and Latin roots in your reading, and challenge yourself to decode unfamiliar words!

Summary

By understanding Greek and Latin roots, prefixes, and suffixes, you can unlock the meanings of many English words. When you encounter an unfamiliar word, try to break it down into its component parts and use the context to infer its meaning. Using these skills will greatly improve your understanding of the English language!

List of words with Use words as clues to the meanings of Greek and Latin roots

Lets practice :

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