Use words as clues to the meanings of Greek and Latin roots

key notes :

What are Greek and Latin Roots?

Greek and Latin are ancient languages that have heavily influenced English. Many English words are built upon root words, prefixes, and suffixes derived from these languages. A root is the basic part of a word that carries the main meaning. Prefixes are added to the beginning of a root, and suffixes are added to the end.

Using Words as Clues: Context is Key!

The trick to understanding Greek and Latin roots lies in recognizing them within familiar words and using the surrounding context as a guide. By analyzing how a word is used in a sentence or passage, you can often deduce the meaning of the root. Let’s look at some examples:

Root: Spect (Latin) Meaning: To look or see

Example Words: Spectacle: A visually striking performance or display. (Think of something you see that is impressive). Inspect: To look at something carefully to discover flaws. (You look closely). Spectator: A person who watches an event. (Someone who sees the event). Respect: To look up to someone. (to look at someone with admiration) Clue: All these words involve the act of seeing or looking in some way.

Root: Bio (Greek) Meaning: Life

Example Words: Biology: The study of living organisms. (The study of life). Biography: An account of someone’s life. (A written account of a life). Antibiotic: A medicine that destroys or inhibits the growth of microorganisms. (Acts against life (microorganisms)). Clue: These words all relate to living things or the study of life.

Root: Port (Latin) Meaning: To carry

Example Words: Transport: To carry something from one place to another. Export: To carry goods out of a country. Import: To carry goods into a country. Portable: Able to be easily carried. Clue: These words involve the act of carrying something somewhere.

Tips for Decoding Root Words

• Look for familiar words: Start by identifying words you already know that contain the root.
• Analyze the context: Pay attention to how the word is used in the sentence or paragraph. What clues does the surrounding text provide?
• Consider prefixes and suffixes: Prefixes and suffixes can modify the meaning of the root. Learn common prefixes and suffixes to enhance your understanding.
• Break down the word: Separate the word into its root, prefix, and suffix (if any). This can help you isolate the core meaning.
• Use a dictionary: When in doubt, consult a dictionary to confirm your understanding of the root and its meaning.
• Practice regularly: The more you practice decoding words with Greek and Latin roots, the better you’ll become at recognizing them.

Common Greek and Latin Roots

Here are some additional common Greek and Latin roots to get you started:

• Aud/Audit (Latin): To hear
• Therm (Greek): Heat
• Graph (Greek): Write
• Geo (Greek): Earth
• Meter (Greek): Measure
• Vis/Vid (Latin): To see

Next Steps

Now that you’ve learned how to use words as clues to the meanings of Greek and Latin roots, practice this technique with your reading assignments. Make a list of unfamiliar words, identify potential roots, and use context clues to deduce their meanings. With consistent effort, you’ll significantly expand your vocabulary and become a more confident reader!