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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Which prefix means "thoroughly" or "down"?

Cata-
Mono-
Ploy-
Contra-

The correct answer is: Cata-

The prefix "cata-" means "thoroughly" or "down." It is derived from Greek, where it conveys a sense of intensity or downward movement. In various English words, "cata-" signifies a process of breaking down or a thorough examination. For instance, in the term "catastrophe," it implies a significant or overwhelming event, while "catalyst" refers to a substance that causes a chemical reaction to proceed more quickly or thoroughly. Other prefixes, such as "mono-," indicate singularity or oneness, as seen in words like "monopoly," where it denotes a sole entity. "Ploy-" typically relates to folding or multiplication, as in "polyhedron," which refers to a shape with many faces. "Contra-" indicates opposition, as in "contradict," which points to assertions that are opposed to one another. Therefore, "cata-" is the only prefix that accurately conveys the meaning of "thoroughly" or "down."