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Dis- Prefix

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Adding a prefix to the start of a word changes the meaning.

Dis- is a negative prefix. It means not or none. When we add dis- to the beginning of a word, we give it the opposite meaning.

Take a look at these example sentences.

Appear and Disappear

The sun appears over the sea in the morning and disappears behind the mountains in the evening.

Honest and Dishonest

Stealing is dishonest. Now be honest with me, did you take the CD?

Obey and Disobey

The children disobey their teacher; they never do what he says. It's only when they get older that they learn to obey.

Agree and Disagree

It's ok to disagree with your boyfriend. You don't have to agree on everything.

Advantage and Disadvantage

Not being able to speak English can be a disadvantage. To get a good job English is an advantage.

Now complete these sentences with the correct dis- word.

  • 1) Where did Sally ___ to? She was here a moment ago!




  • 2) It's usual for a puppy to ___ it's owner. Be patient and keep training it.




  • 3) We always ___ over where to go for lunch. She likes Italian, I like Chinese.




  • 4) She would never do anything ___ like charge you too much.




  • 5) Not having courage is a ___ if you want to be a good gymnast.