Can word structure, like a prefix or suffix, help understand the meaning of new vocabulary?

Understanding word structure, including prefixes and suffixes, can significantly enhance vocabulary comprehension. Prefixes are additions to the front of a word that can alter its meaning, while suffixes are added to the end and can change both the meaning and the grammatical function of the word. For example, the prefix "un-" in "unhappy" indicates a negation, while the suffix "-ness" in "happiness" transforms an adjective into a noun. Recognizing these components allows readers and learners to infer the meanings of unfamiliar words, making it easier to grasp new vocabulary.

This mechanism works across different parts of speech, not limited to any specific category like nouns or verbs, which is why the assertion is universally applicable rather than restricted to a subset of words. Thus, leveraging knowledge of prefixes and suffixes is a powerful strategy for vocabulary enhancement.