Common Root Words to Know
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Test Innovators, Inc.
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The Common Root Words to Know is a list of Greek and Latin roots, stems, and prefixes commonly used
in English. This list can be used to supplement other vocabulary learning resources, and help students
build their knowledge of the English language.
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Root Meaning Example
ab Away from abnormal
abstract
ambi both ambidextrous
ambivalent
a/an/anti not/against amoral
asymmetrical
anim life animation
animal
auto self autobiography
autograph
ben good beneficial
benevolent
chron time chronology
chronic
cis/cise cut/shorten scissors
concise
cred belief credibility
credentials
de/dis away from/not disagree
distance
em within/in empathy
empower
equ equal equality
equate
fort strength fortress
fortify
gress movement progress
regress
Root Meaning Example
laud praise applaud
laudable
loc/loq speech eloquent
loquacious
colloquial
mag/magna great (big or good) magnify
magnificent
mal bad malicious
maleficent
mis wrong mistake
misstep
misfortune
mono one monotone
monolith
ob against obstruct
obstacle
pac peace pacify
pact
path feeling sympathy
apathy
phil love philanthropic
philosophy
re to do over revive
revolve
revise
ver truth verify
aver
vit/viv life vital
revive
