Why Connecting Vowels Exist
* Pronunciation: They help make the word easier to pronounce. Often, a prefix ending in a consonant and a root word starting with a consonant can be awkward to say. The connecting vowel smooths this out.
* Etymology: In some cases, the connecting vowel is a remnant of the original Latin or Greek root.
When to Use Connecting Vowels
* Prefixes Ending in a Consonant: Connecting vowels are most common when a prefix ends in a consonant and the root word starts with a consonant.
* Examples:
* Im + possible = im possible
* In + accurate = in accurate
* Sub + marine = sub marine
* Specific Prefixes: Some prefixes, like "ad" and "co," commonly take a connecting vowel, even when the root word starts with a vowel.
* Examples:
* Ad + vert = ad vert
* Co + operate = co operate
Common Connecting Vowels
* "o": This is the most common connecting vowel.
* "i": This is less common but can appear after prefixes ending in "l" or "r."
Exceptions
* Some prefixes don't use connecting vowels: Prefixes ending in a vowel (like "pre" or "re") usually don't need a connecting vowel.
* Sometimes, no connecting vowel is needed: If the root word starts with a vowel, you generally don't add a connecting vowel.
Example:
* Pre + exist = pre exist (no connecting vowel needed)
* Anti + social = anti social (no connecting vowel needed)
Key Point: The best way to learn connecting vowels is to familiarize yourself with common prefixes and practice recognizing when they're used.