MTEL Communication Literacy Skills : Reading Practice Test

Which prefix refers to the meaning "across, beyond, over"?

1. Trans-

2. Ultra-

3. Intra-

4. Inter-

The correct answer is: Trans-

The prefix "trans-" is associated with the meaning "across, beyond, over." This prefix derives from Latin, where it signifies movement from one side to another or a change of state or position. In various words, such as "transport" (to carry across), "transcontinental" (spanning across continents), and "transfer" (to move from one place to another), "trans-" effectively conveys the idea of crossing or going beyond a certain point. In contrast, the other prefixes have distinct meanings that do not align with "across, beyond, over." For example, "ultra-" typically means "beyond" but often refers more specifically to extremes or excessive amounts, rather than a straightforward crossing. "Intra-" denotes "within" or "inside," indicating something that occurs inside a specific boundary rather than moving across it. "Inter-" means "between" or "among," focusing on relationships or interactions between entities rather than the notion of crossing over. Thus, "trans-" accurately reflects the concept of crossing or going beyond, making it the appropriate choice.