MTEL Communication Literacy Skills : Reading Practice Test

Which of the following prefixes means "excessively"?

1. Super-

2. Trans-

3. Intra-

4. Dis-

The correct answer is: Super-

The prefix "super-" is derived from Latin, meaning "above," "beyond," or "excessively." When added to the beginning of a word, it amplifies the meaning, indicating a greater degree of something. For example, "superhuman" refers to abilities or qualities that exceed the normal human level. This aligns perfectly with the interpretation of “excessively.” The other prefixes do not convey the same notion of excess. "Trans-" generally means "across" or "beyond" but does not imply excessive quantity or degree. "Intra-" indicates "within" or "inside,” typically referring to something contained or existing within a certain boundary. Lastly, "dis-" often implies negation or opposition but does not suggest a sense of excess, focusing instead on the absence or reversal of a condition.