Expertlatin
- How do you know which prefix to use?
- What are the rules for prefixes in and im?
- What is the difference between the prefix in and un?
How do you know which prefix to use?
With prefixes, the start of the word will change. So if the prefix ends in a vowel, such as “a-“, a root word starting with a consonant will use it as it is, for example “atypical”. But if the root words starts with vowel as well, then a consonant is added in.
What are the rules for prefixes in and im?
Use im- prefix before words that start with m or p: impossible. Use ir- prefix before words that start with r: irregular. Use in- prefix with words that start with consonants and vowels, but not i or u.
What is the difference between the prefix in and un?
The answer to their usage relies on their roots. If the base word stems from a Germanic language, the proper prefix is “un-.” If it stems from a Latin word, the proper prefix is “in-.” Yes, it's a nice simple answer, but not the easy answer that English spellers were hoping for. If you're still confused, don't worry.
