"In-"
* General negativity: "In-" is often used to create the opposite of a word, indicating absence, lack, or the opposite of a quality.
* Used with adjectives and verbs: "In-" can be used with both adjectives (e.g., inactive, invisible) and verbs (e.g., invalidate, include).
* Latin origin: "In-" often comes from Latin roots.
* Sometimes combines with other prefixes: "In-" can combine with other prefixes, like "im-" (e.g., impossible) or "ir-" (e.g., irresponsible).
"Un-"
* Reversal or undoing: "Un-" is often used to suggest the opposite of an action or to reverse a state.
* Primarily used with verbs and adjectives: "Un-" is more commonly used with verbs (e.g., unlock, undo) and adjectives (e.g., unhappy, unnatural).
* Anglo-Saxon origin: "Un-" is primarily of Anglo-Saxon origin.
* More straightforward in meaning: "Un-" usually creates a clear and direct opposite of the word it modifies.
Here are some examples to illustrate the difference:
* Inactive (in-): This describes someone or something that is not active, lacking activity.
* Unhappy (un-): This describes someone who is not happy, experiencing the opposite of happiness.
* Invalidated (in-): This describes something that has been made invalid or no longer considered valid.
* Unlocked (un-): This describes the act of undoing the lock, the opposite of locking.
In summary:
* "In-" is used for general negativity, often indicating absence or lack, and can be used with both verbs and adjectives.
* "Un-" is used for reversal or undoing, primarily used with verbs and adjectives, and often creates a direct opposite of the word it modifies.
Remember that there are exceptions to these rules, and sometimes both prefixes can be used with the same word, with subtle differences in meaning.