MTEL Communication Literacy Skills : Reading Practice Test

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Prepare for the MTEL Communication Literacy Skills Reading Test. Study with flashcards, questions, and hints to excel in your exam.

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What does the prefix "para-" refer to?

  1. Beside, beyond

  2. Excessive

  3. Large

  4. All, entire

The correct answer is: Beside, beyond

The prefix "para-" primarily means "beside" or "beyond." It is often used in various contexts to indicate something that is alongside or related to something else, without being identical to it. For example, in the word "paralegal," it implies a legal professional who works alongside lawyers but is not a lawyer. Similarly, in "paranormal," it suggests phenomena that are beyond the normal range of scientific explanation. Understanding this prefix helps in deciphering the meanings of numerous words across different fields, including science, medicine, and literature, where "para-" indicates a relationship to a core concept without being the main subject itself. This leads to a better grasp of related terms and their implications.