Is cardiocentesis and example of a word root used to link suffix that begins with vowel?

You're right to focus on the vowel issue! Here's a breakdown:

* Cardiocentesis: This word combines the root "cardi-" (heart) with the suffix "-centesis" (puncture).

* The Issue: The suffix "-centesis" begins with a vowel ("e"). The root "cardi-" ends with a consonant ("i").

* The Rule: Typically, when a root ending in a consonant is followed by a suffix beginning with a vowel, a connecting vowel is added to the root to make pronunciation smoother.

* The Exception: In the case of "cardiocentesis," the connecting vowel is *not* used. This is a common exception to the rule.

Therefore, while it's a good example of a word combining a root and a vowel-starting suffix, it's not a good example of a word where a connecting vowel is used.

Let me know if you'd like more examples!