2. 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 |
Inadequate
|
Unacceptable
|
Irregular
|
Intolerant
|
Undemanding
|
Inactive
|
Untrue
|
Impermanent
|
Unpatriotic
|
Undisputed
|
Inaccessible
|
Incoherent
|
Illogical
|
Illegal
|
Irresponsible
|
Impossible
|