Mal- and Bene-

mal- and bene-

Prefixes can give us a clue to the definition of certain words. Once an individual knows the meaning of the prefixes, it would be easier for him to broaden his vocabulary.

Many prefixes are based in Latin. Examples are the prefixes bene- (or beni-) meaning good and mal- (mala- or male- or mali-) which means bad.

Examples:

Benefit – a favorable circumstance; charity
Beneficial- advantageous; useful; profitable

Big or Large?

Two words may be synonymous but not necessarily interchangeable. Each word has an associated meaning or connotation. Take for example the words big and large. They may have the same meaning and it might be possible that one may be used to take the place of the other. There are instances though that if it is done, it would completely change the whole thing.

If somebody tells you that you are a big girl now, then you might smile because it seems that you are now considered grown-up. But then if you are told that you are a large girl now, you might be

Euphemism

Euphemisms are words that we use to substitute for words which are considered too direct or rude. These words or phrases are deemed to be less offensive. Here are some examples of some words/phrases and their euphemisms:

1. old man or woman – senior citizen
2. poor – underprivileged
3. dull or stupid – mentally-challenged
4. fat – chubby; plump; healthy