Study the words in italics in the sentences below. They are formed by prefixing un –
or in – to their antonyms (words opposite in meaning).
• I was a short boy with rather undistinguished looks. (un + distinguished)
• My austere father used to avoid all inessential comforts. (in + essential)
• The area was completely unaffected by the war. (un + affected)
• He should not spread the poison of social inequality and communal intolerance. (in + equality, in + tolerance)
Now form the opposites of the words below by prefixing un- or in-. The prefix in- can also have the forms il-, ir-, or im- (for example: illiterate –il + literate, impractical –im + practical, irrational – ir + rational). You may consult a dictionary if you wish.
| ____ adequate |
____ acceptable |
____ regular |
____ tolerant |
| ____ demanding |
____ active |
____ true |
____ permanent |
| ____ patriotic |
____ disputed |
____ accessible |
____ coherent |
| ____ logical |
____ legal |
____ responsible |
____ possible |
