What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prefix
Example
The prefix 'un-' can be added to the word 'happy' to make 'unhappy'. [prefix: noun]
Example
She preheated the oven before baking the cake. [pre-: prefix]
affix
Example
The word 'unhappy' has the affix 'un-' added to the beginning. [affix: noun]
Example
She was able to unbutton her shirt with ease. [un-: affix]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Prefix is more commonly used than affix in everyday language. Prefix is used to form many common words such as 'preheat', 'unhappy', and 'dislike'.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between prefix and affix?
Both prefix and affix are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
