Study the words in italics in the sentences below. They are formed prefixing un-or in-to their antonyms (words opposite in meaning).
(i) I was a short boy with rather undistinguished looks. (un + distinguished)
(ii) My austere father used to avoid all inessential comforts. (in + essential)
(iii) The area was completely unaffected by the war. (un + affected)
(iv) He should not spread the poison of social inequality and communal intolerance. (in + equality, in + tolerance)
Now form the opposites of the words below by prefixing -un or -in. The prefix in- can also have the forms il-, ir-, or im- (for example: illiterate-il+literate, impractical- im+practical, irratational -ir+rational). You may consult a dictionary if you wish.
-adequate -acceptable -regular -tolerant -demanding -active -true -permanent -patriotic -disputed -accessible -coherent -logical -legal -responsible -possible |
Adequate-inadequate Regular-irregular Demanding-undemanding True-untrue Patriotic-unpatriotic Accessible-inaccessible Logical-illogical Legal-illegal Possible-impossible | Acceptable-unacceptable Tolerant-intolerant Active-inactive Permanent-impermanent Disputed-undisputed Coherent-incoherent Responsible-irresponsible |