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What does the prefix -ish mean?

The suffix "-ish" (not prefix) generally indicates:

* Approximation or resemblance: It suggests something is "somewhat" or "partially" like the word it's attached to.

* Example: "Reddish" means something is slightly red, "bookish" means someone likes books but isn't necessarily a scholar.

* Imprecision or uncertainty: It can express a lack of certainty or a vague quality.

* Example: "Twenty-ish" means around 20, "sort of bluish" means it's a color close to blue but not exactly.

* Informal or conversational: "-ish" is often used in informal speech and writing to soften a statement or make it less formal.

* Example: "He's a bit childish" is less harsh than "He's a child."

It's important to note that "-ish" can sometimes have subtle variations in meaning depending on the context.

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