What is the term that encompasses both prefixes and suffixes?

The term that encompasses both prefixes and suffixes is "affix." An affix is a morpheme that is added to a word to modify its meaning. Prefixes are affixes placed at the beginning of a word, while suffixes are added to the end. Understanding the role of affixes is crucial for building vocabulary, as they help in word formation and altering meanings. For example, in the word "unhappiness," "un-" is a prefix meaning "not," and "-ness" is a suffix that turns an adjective into a noun. This comprehension allows students to decode new words and understand their meanings more effectively.

In contrast, base words refer to the main part of a word to which affixes can be added but do not include the affixes themselves. Analogy involves drawing a comparison between two different items, while blending refers to combining sounds or words to form new expressions. Neither of these terms serves to collectively describe prefixes and suffixes. Therefore, identifying the correct term as "affix" is essential in understanding the components of word construction in reading.