What term refers to syllables added to the beginning of a word?

• A. Prefix
• B. Suffix
• C. Root word
• D. Affix

Answer: (A)

Think about how we form new words by sticking something onto the front of an existing word. That front piece is called a prefix. Prefixes are syllables or groups of letters added to the beginning to change meaning or create a new word, like un- in unhappy, pre- in preview, or re- in rewrite. A suffix does the opposite, adding to the end (like -ed or -ing). The root word is the base form that carries the core meaning, such as walk in walked or walking. An affix is the general term for any piece added to a word, whether at the front or the end. Since the question asks for the term specifically for syllables added to the beginning, the best answer is prefix.