Affixes and the Role of Authors

Flashcards covering the definitions and classifications of affixes as well as the role, influence, and techniques of authors.

What is an affix in linguistics?

A small word particle, usually only a few letters, added to a root word to change its meaning or grammatical properties.

Which four main types of affixes are classified by their position relative to the root word?

Prefix, suffix, infix, and circumfix.

Where is a prefix attached, and give an example.

A prefix is attached to the beginning of a root word, e.g., "un-" in "unhappy."

Where is a suffix attached, and give an example.

A suffix is attached to the end of a root word, e.g., "-ness" in "happiness."

Name two grammatical functions that suffixes can serve.

Verb conjugation (e.g., work → worked) and plurality (e.g., fox → foxes).

What is an infix, and does English commonly use them?

An infix is an affix placed in the middle of a word; English does not commonly use infixes.

Give two language families in which infixes are common.

Greek and Austronesian languages such as Tagalog (also Indigenous American languages like Choctaw).

What is a circumfix, and provide one English example.

A pair of prefixes and suffixes always used together; an example in English is en–…–en in the word "enlighten."

Define an author.

A person who creates or produces written, spoken, or visual works.

List three forms of creative expression that fall under the term "author."

Books or articles, speeches or scripts, artwork or music (among others).

How do authors influence and inspire others through their work?

By sparking conversations, challenging perceptions, evoking emotions, and prompting reflection.

What individual aspect do authors bring to their work that shapes representation?

Their own perspectives and viewpoints.

Name two techniques authors use to engage audiences and convey messages.

Imagery and storytelling (also language, symbolism, etc.).