1.1.3

Understanding New Words: Root Words

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Understanding New Words: Root Words

We can break down words into different parts to help us figure out new meanings of words. One way to understand the meaning of a word is to look at the root word.

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Importance of root words

  • We work out the meaning of words based on the root word.
  • The root word is the base word (so not the prefix or suffix!).
    • For example: cycle is a root word.
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Examples

  • Hope is a root word in 'hopeful'.
  • Happy is a root word in 'unhappy'.
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More examples

  • Swim is a root word in 'swimming'.
  • Play is a root word in 'replay'.

Jump to other topics

1Reading

1.1Reading

1.2Prefixes

1.3Suffixes

1.4Spelling Rules

1.5Reading Comprehension

1.6Reading Comprehension: SAT Practise

1.7Word Meaning

1.8Fact vs. Opinion

1.9Justifying Views

1.10Figurative Language

1.11Text Structure

2Writing

2.1Sounds in Words

2.2Homophones

2.3Using a Dictionary

2.4Writing Composition

2.5The Subjunctive Mood

2.6Modal Verbs

2.7Active & Passive Voice

2.8Relative Clauses

2.9Expanded Nouns

2.10Punctuation

2.11SAT Spelling Practise

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