Oct 20 (edited) • Part 3
🟣 English Lab | Part 3 Tip – Mastering Prefixes
Ever wonder why we say impossible but incorrect or illegal?
All three mean “not possible / not correct / not legal” — so why different prefixes?
Because English loves patterns.Each prefix changes based on the sound that follows it.
🧠Exam Coaching
These are the main “negative” prefixes Cambridge tests:
Words starting with p or m: prefix: im- impossible, impatient
Words starting with l: prefix: il- illegal, illogical
Words starting with r: prefix: ir- irregular, irresponsible
Most other consonants: prefix: in- invisible, incorrect
Verbs / adjectives (change of state) prefix: un- unhappy, unlock, unclear
Cambridge loves these because they test both grammar and sound awareness — not just spelling.
💡 Pro tip:When you see a word with “not” in the sentence, check if it needs a negative prefix or a negative word instead.
❌ Not possible → ✅ impossible
❌ Not correct → ✅ incorrect
👉 Challenge: Write one example using any of these prefixes below.I’ll reply and tell you if it “sounds” native or if Cambridge would test it.
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🟣 English Lab | Part 3 Tip – Mastering Prefixes
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