Language fluency takes time, practice, and patience. In fact, it takes upwards of 10,000 words to feel comfortable speaking in a new language. That’s an intimidating number if you’re still mastering basic vocabulary!
If you’re looking for a shortcut, you’ve come to the right place. From identifying cognate words to listening to Spanish music, we’ve covered a variety of ways to expand your vocabulary fast. To boost your word knowledge even quicker, we recommend strengthening your understanding of Spanish prefixes.
Prefixes might not sound all that fun, but we promise this grammar element is more accessible than you think. Plus, you’ll find that many prefixes have the same meaning in both Spanish and English! Mastering the 40 common Spanish prefixes in the list below will amplify your word power and elevate your confidence.
The Rosetta Stone app can help you to identify and master these 40 prefixes by providing maximum exposure in an engaging context. Because you’re learning through our Dynamic Immersion approach, rather than rote memorization of Spanish grammar rules, you’ll build a deeper, more enduring understanding of the language—and you’ll retain information better along the way!
Why Spanish prefixes are so important
A prefix, or prefijo in Spanish, is a type of affix, a part of a word that can modify its meaning.
Even the word “prefix” has a prefix! “Pre-,” which means “before,” “earlier than,” and “prior to,” tells us that it goes at the front of the root word. There are also suffixes, which go at the end. Ironically, the word “suffix” starts with a prefix, as it is believed that “suf-” came from “sub-” which can mean “behind.”
Learning a long list of prefixes might not be high on your to-do list until you do the math. Combining Spanish root words with a variety of Spanish prefixes can multiply your linguistic repertoire quickly! This list of 40 Spanish prefixes will also increase the number of Spanish root words that you can decode! Let’s take a look at this example:
desacuerdo = des– (not, the inverse) + acuerdo (agreement)
With this in mind, you can now apply both the prefix and the root word to new words and phrases, like:
desayunar = to have breakfast; des = not, ayunar = to fast
estar de acuerdo = to be in agreement
It’s not only about quantity, but also about the quality of your lexicon. Breaking down complicated-looking words into smaller parts can help you:
- comprehend more sophisticated texts,
- follow patterns to guess at meanings of unfamiliar words,
- understand the intensity or formality of the tone, and
- grasp more complex terms at a deeper level.
Prefixes can help you:
- choose a more precise word,
- communicate with appropriate nuance to convey the intended meaning of a message,
- conjugate thousands of verbs you already know without learning more Spanish grammar rules, and
- avoid awkward combinations of words.
How do English and Spanish prefixes compare?
We’ll say congrats in advance because you probably already know many of the prefixes on this list! English and Spanish are from different language families but still have notable similarities due to shared Latin roots.
Many words between the two languages are cognates, which means they look similar and have the same meaning. You’ll find those same similarities among prefixes.
For example, the prefix “pro-” in English, which can mean “forward,” gives rise to words such as “promote,” which means “to move forward,” and “propel” which means “to push forward.”
Compare this with the Spanish prefix pro-, and you’ll recognize the words promover (to promote), propulsar (to propel), and proclamar (to proclaim, or send a piece of information forward).
Don’t procrastinate, or “shift the timeline forward,” if you want to progress, or “step forward” in your language learning. Start increasing your vocabulary by referencing this list of prefijos (prefixes), and noticing all the ways they can propel your Spanish!
>>Why do so many languages share Latin roots? Here’s a little history on Romance languages.
Must-know Spanish prefixes
1. Pre-
Meaning: before, in front of
Pre– can refer to something that comes in front of something else. It can also be used to express a prior activity or state in a sequence.
- preescolar = taking place before school-age
- predeterminar = to determine in advance
- prehistórico = occurring before historical records
- prejuzgar = to judge something before knowing the facts
2. Pos- ; Post-
Meaning: after, behind
Pos– and Post– can be the opuesto (opposite) of pre- and refer to something that happens after the root word.
- posponer = to put something off until after
- posproducción = editing stage after the filming
- posguerra = the period after the war
- postoperatorio = after an operation
- pos Edad Media = after the Middle Ages
3. entre-
Meaning: between, mid
Entre– can refer to an intermediate or medium amount. It is often used to express a position between or in the middle of other elements.
- entrepiso = a mezzanine or landing between floors
- entrecruzar = to intertwine or cross over
- entreabrir = to open part-way, midway
- entreacto = intermission, between the two acts of a play
4. en-
Meaning: in, inside of, to become like
En– can mean simply, “inside of,” “in,” or “on.” It can also refer to a transformation or change, or imply that something is entering into a state of being.
- enlatado, enlatada = in a can or jar
- enamorado, enamorada = in love
- enmarcar = to put in a frame
- enfocar = to focus on, to become focused
- entristecer = to become sad, make sad
5. ante-
Meaning: before, in front of, previous to
Similar to pre-, ante– can refer to a previous time or preexisting condition. It can also refer to a physical location in front of another element.
- anterior = previous, in front
- antebrazo = forearm, the front part of the arm
- anteayer = the day before yesterday
- antepasados = ancestors, people who came before
- antemano = beforehand, as in “gracias de antemano” (thanks in advance)
6. ex-
Meaning: out of, or former
We’re all familiar with the word “ex” on its own, to refer to an ex–novio (former boyfriend.) In addition to something that was but is no longer, ex– can mean something that came out of/from something else, was brought out.
- expresidenta = former president
- exponer =to exhibit, expose, or put it out
- excavar = to excavate, to dig out
- exculpar = to release from guilt
- expulsar = to throw out or expel
7. inter-
Meaning: in the middle of, between, among
Inter– is similar to its usage in English, for between or among different pieces. It should not be confused with intra– which is within a single piece.
- inter–club = games played between different teams or clubs
- interraíl = a ticket that can be used between different train lines
- Interacción = communication between two different parties
- intercambio = an exchange between two parties or of two things
- intersección = a point where two things cross
8. intra-
Meaning: within
Intra– is similar to its usage in English, for within a group or place. Take care not to confuse it with inter– which would refer to a relationship or interaction between two different groups or things.
- intraabdominal = within the abdomen
- intramuros = within city walls, within one organization
- Intravenoso = inside of a vein
9. sobre-
Meaning: over, excess, suddenly
Sobre– can refer to a superior position. It can also mean excess or exaggeration.
- sobreabundancia = an overabundance
- sobreestimar = to overestimate
- sobremesa = literally, tablecloth or covering; figuratively, a conversation that takes place “over” the dinner table after the meal
- sobreprotector = overprotective, excessively protective
- sobresalto = a sudden jump or fright, a shock
10. sub-
Meaning: under, inferior, not enough
Often the opuesto, (opposite) of sobre-, sub– can show inferiority, as in the English word subpar. It can indicate a lower physical position.
- submarino = under the sea, a submarine goes under water
- subrayar = to underline
- subtítulo = subtitles, words under the video
- subempleo = underemployment, employed in a job inferior to one’s skills
- subestimar = underestimate, estimate not enough
11. re-
Meaning: again, repeated, backward, negated, or intense
English speakers are most familiar with the common usage of re– that means “again,” but it can carry a meaning of backward or negation. It is also commonly used as an intensifier, like “super” or “really” or “wicked,” in certain regions, such as the Southern Cone of South America and in some parts of Spain.
It is sometimes heard in casual speech combined with other syllables, such as requete– to add emphasis, such as requetebién (really well) or requete feliz (super happy).
- reiniciar = to restart
- retrasar = to delay (move backward)
- recortar = to trim back, cut back
- revertir =to revert, go back to a previous state
- rechazar = to reject, a negative usage similar to repudiar (repudiate) or reprobar (condemn).
12. ben- , bene-, or bien-
Meaning: good
English speakers will recognize this similar prefix in words such as beneficial, benevolent, and benign, and beginner Spanish learners will know the adjective bueno, as in ¡buenos días! A list of more ben– and bien– words will be a real benefit to your Spanish!
- bendecir = to bless, or to say nice things about
- beneficios = benefits
- bienestar = well being
- bienvenida = welcome
- bienvivir = to live well
13. mal-
Meaning: bad
Mal- is the opuesto (opposite) of ben– , bene-, and bien. It negates or ascribes a negative connotation to a Spanish root word.
- malhumorado = in a bad mood
- malacostumbrada = spoiled or pampered, with bad habits, badly adjusted
- malestar = unease or discomfort
- malentendido = misunderstanding
- maleducado = rude, impolite, raised poorly
14. des-
Meaning: negation or the inverse
Similar to the English prefix dis-, this would convey the opposite or lack of the root word. It can often be translated with “not.”
- desorganizado = disorganized, not organized
- descartar = dismiss, reject, discard
- desafecto = indifferent, opposed, hostile
- desacuerdo = disagreement
- desahogar = to vent, get something off your chest, to “not drown or choke”
15. dis-
Meaning: negation or the inverse; not
Similar to the English prefix dis-, and the Spanish des-, this would convey the opposite or lack of the root word. It can often be translated with “not.”
- disculpar = to forgive, to not lay blame
- disgusto = annoyance or upset – notice the root word gustar, to be pleasing to, this means “to not be pleasing to.”
- discontinuar = to not continue, to stop
- disfunción = not functioning
16. im-, in-
Meaning: opposite/not, lack of, or inside
With many cognates in English, this is a helpful prefix that can add opposites to your vocabulary. It might convey the same meaning as “un-”or “non-” in English.
- imposible = not possible
- impaciencia = lack of patience
- improbabilidad = lack of probability
- inofensivo = not dangerous or offensive
- independiente = not dependent
17. pro-
Meaning: in favor of, move forward, ahead, substitute
As in English, the familiar prefix pro– can mean agreeing or supporting, but also can signify a move forward in time or space, or a substitution.
- prometer = to promise – put forward an intention
- prólogo = the words that go in front of the narrative and move it forward
- pronóstico = prediction, forecast, letting you know the situation ahead of time
- pronombre = pronoun, used in place of a noun
- prótesis = prosthesis, substitute for a missing body part
18. contra-
Meaning: against, in opposition to, counter
Contra– reminds us of the familiar English prefix “con-” which can indicate opposition, in a physical or intangible sense. Not all words carry a negative meaning, however, since contrabajo is the double bass, the musical instrument.
- contraviento = against the wind
- contradecir = to contradict, to say the opposite
- contracultura = against the prevailing culture
- contratiempo = against time, a setback or obstacle
19. anti-
Meaning: against, in opposition to
As in English, the familiar prefix anti– can mean against, in similar ways as contra– . You can use it to express resistance and opposition by combining it with other Spanish root words that you already know!
- antibiótico = antibiotic, against bacteria
- anticuerpo = antibody, counteracts a foreign body
- antipático = not nice to be around, unfriendly, unpleasant; a difficult word to define in English, but the opposite of simpático
- antítesis = antithesis, a contrast or opposition of an idea
20. super-
Meaning: above, excellence, excess
The meaning of super– can be a literal excess or physical position above something else. In colloquial language, it can also be an intensifier like the Spanish re-.
- superpoderes = superpowers, ability above the ordinary
- superponer = to superimpose, to put over, to overlap
- supermercado = large or superior market or store
- supersónico = goes above the speed of sound
- superbién = super great, really awesome (colloquial)
21. hiper-
Meaning: excess
Similar to super-, hiper- can mean excessive. It can convey a sense of intensity, and it is often used with medical terms.
- hiperinflación = excessive and rapid inflation
- hipertensión = high blood pressure
- hipersensible = overly sensitive
- hiperactivo = too active
22. hipo-
Meaning: opposite of hiper– , a lack of, less than standard, under
Often seen in medical terms, hipo– indicates a deficiency, or lack of something relative to a typical or standard. It can also refer to an underperformance.
- hipoalergénico = less allergenic than typical
- hipodérmico = under the skin
- hipoglucemia = lower levels of sugar in the blood
- hipotermia = lower than normal body temperature
- hipoproducción = lower than expected production
23. homo-
Meaning: equal or same
The prefix homo– is less common in Spanish than in English, but it is often present in cognates that refer to something that is the same or equal. It is derived from the Greek word “homos” meaning “same” or “similar.”
- homofonía = equal sounds, singing together
- homónimo = namesake, someone with the same name, or words pronounced the same way
- homogeneización = process of making a substance or group uniform and similar
24. uni-
Meaning: whole, one
Similar to English, we see uni– in “unify” and “unite,” in order to make something into a whole. It can also refer to a single unit.
- unicelular = single-celled
- unicornio = one horn
- unicejo = two eyebrows without division appearing as one
- uniforme = having one form
- universal = belongs to all
25. mono-
Meaning: single, singular
Mono– indicates having only one of something, to distinguish from uni-, which indicates parts becoming one. As an academic prefix, it can help you understand concepts in literature, language, economics, sociology, and more!
- monografía = written by one author
- monólogo = one person speaking alone to an audience
- monopolio = monopoly, business in which only one company operates without competition
- monopatín = skateboard in peninsular spanish, scooter in other regions
- monoteísmo = belief in only one god
26. bi- or bis-
Meaning: two, twice
Similar to English, bi-, bis-, or even biz– can refer to a group of two, or something that occurs twice in a time period. It can help you comprehend words that carry the meaning of both, or double.
- bilingüe = bilingual, speaks two languages
- bianual = an event that happens twice per year
- bípedo = biped, animal that walks on two legs
- bisabuelo = great-grandfather a father of a grandparent
- bizcocho = In some regions, this is a type of biscuit or cookie that is baked twice (related to the Italian biscotti, and French biscuit), though it can also refer to a sponge cake.
27. tri-
Meaning: three, three times
Similar to bi-, tri- relates to a group of three. Bonus! You might also notice similar prefixes related to numbers, such as tetra– (4), penta– (5), hexa (6), hepta– (7), octa– (8), nona– (9) and deca– (10). Notice other less common patterns, and you’ll unearth a multitude of words!
- trisílaba = three-syllable word
- tricyclo = tricycle, riding toy with three wheels
- triángulo = triangle, shape with three angles
28. semi-
Meaning: medium, in part, half
Similar to English, semi– is often used to denote a part of a whole, or an intermediate stage. Being familiar with this word can help you comprehend a sense of incompleteness.
- semicírculo = a half-circle
- semiabierto = partly open
- semifinal = the event that takes place before the final
- semitransparente = partly see-through
- semiseco = between wet and dry, partly dry
29. poli-
Meaning: many, multiple
Just like uni-, bi-, tri-, and mono– give a numerical meaning, poli– indicates that there are multiple, many, or a variety of parts, though the specific number may be unspecified. It is similar to mono- in that it is used in various academic fields.
- políglota = someone who speaks multiple languages
- politeísta = believing in multiple gods
- polígono = geometric figure with 3 or more sides (but an unspecified number)
- polivalente = multi-skilled or multi-talented, versatile
30. equi-
Meaning: equal
Similar to English, equi– brings to mind equality, or a state of similarity. Knowing this prefix can help you understand concepts of justice.
- equivalente = the same, equal to
- equilibrar = to balance, make equal
- equidistante = being an equal distance from a common point
31. cent- centi-
Meaning: one hundred, one hundredth
Spanish and English alike borrowed from the Latin root word “cent.” Spanish learners will also notice its similarity to cien, the word for 100.
- centímetro = a one hundredth of a meter
- céntimo, centavo, centésimo = a “cent,” one hundredth of a unit of currency, depending on the unit
- centenario – person who is one hundred years of age
32. auto–
Meaning: self
The familiar prefix auto– can be interchanged with the English self- in most cases. You’ll increase your vocabulary for independence!
- autoestima = self-esteem
- autónomo = self-sufficient, independent, self-governing
- automático = automatically, happens by itself
- autodidacta = self-taught
- autorretrato = self-portrait
33. a-
Meaning: to cause, without, or negation
The prefix a- best not be ignored, as it can indicate the opposite of a familiar Spanish root word, or the action to cause that to occur. It can also indicate the sense of direction.
- atraer = to attract, to cause to come closer
- acomodar = to accommodate, to cause to become comfortable
- acallar = to silence, to cause to become quiet
- apolíticio = not having a political affiliation
- atemporal = timeless
34. retro-
Meaning: backward, in the past
Used as a descriptor of something that came from the past in casual English, retro– can refer to a backward motion in time or space. Spanish speakers also use the prefix as a standalone word to refer to something in the past that is trending again.
- retrovisor = a mirror for looking backward, rear-view mirror
- retrospectiva = retrospect, hindsight
- retroceder = to go backward
- retroactivo = retroactive, applying to something that happened in the past
- retroalimentación = feedback, literally feeding backward
35. para-
Meaning: for, with, together, on the margins of
Para– can signify something that is similar to, or a supplement to something, like an organization. At the same time, it signifies it does not exactly qualify as part of that organization. It gives you the sense of “almost, but not quite.”
- paramilitar = organization similar to the military
- paranormal = unexplained phenomenon, not quite normal
- paramédico = emergency assistant to medical professionals
36. trans-
Meaning: through, to the other side
As a prefix, trans– indicates motion through or to an opposite side. It can also convey the idea of going beyond. You’ll be able to comprehend complex and sophisticated vocabulary such as the following examples.
- transportar = to move something to another place
- transmitir = to carry through, to broadcast
- transcender = to go beyond, emerging
- translúcido = translucent, which allows light to pass through
37. pseudo- , seudo-
Meaning: false, fake
Pseudo- can mean fake, insincere, not genuine, or pretend. Use it to avoid deception and to describe a lack of authenticity.
- pseudocientífico = pseudoscientific, not based on legitimate science
- seudónimo = a fake name, pen-name, or stage name to protect the identity of the creator
- seudópodo = a temporary foot-like protrusion that helps an organism move, seen in amoebas, a false foot
38. tele-
Meaning: at a distance
The invention of the television gave rise to many other related words and technologies using tele-. It is a very helpful prefix when discussing technology.
- teleportar = to move something at a distance
- teleconferencia = a meeting held via remote communication
- telesilla = chairlift in skiing, a chair that takes you up a distance
- telescopio = telescope, device for seeing at a distance
- telenovela = soap opera, dramatic story series on television
39. Co-, con- , com-
Meaning: with, united with, in company of
When we see co-, or similar prefixes, we can think of the English word “together,” in order to decode a more complex word. This prefix helps you discuss teamwork and joint responsibilities.
- coautor, coautora = an author that worked together with another
- confluir = to flow together, converge, meet
- compartir = to share
- contener = to contain, to hold together
- convivir = to live together, to get along with
40. extra-
Meaning: outside of, other than, extremely, or additional
It is certainly extraordinary how many new words you might acquire by knowing so many prefixes! Use extra- to express ideas which are exceptional and exceed expectations.
- extraordinario = outside of the ordinary, beyond normal
- extraterrestre = extra-terrestrial, from outside of the earth
- extraescolar = activities outside of school curricula
- extraviar, extraviarse = misplace, stray outside of
Expand your Spanish vocabulary with Rosetta Stone
Now that you know the power of prefixes, you can better understand and express yourself appropriately in Spanish! You no doubt recognized many of the must-know Spanish prefixes, and have increased your vocabulary just by glancing through the list!
If you want to save yourself the pain of memorization, try expanding your Spanish vocabulary with Rosetta Stone.
Rosetta Stone helps students tap into their innate ability to learn language. Visual and conceptual clues help you interpret the meaning of new prefixes, words, phrases, and sentences, and TruAccent will help you nail the pronunciation. Paying attention to prefixes in Rosetta Stone’s Stories, which are perfectly leveled for each learner, can also give you a huge confidence boost!
Written by Jamie Edwards
Jamie is a learner and teacher of Spanish and French. When she’s not learning new words, you’ll find her on the soccer sidelines, ski slopes, and track and field bleachers enjoying the four seasons of Western New York.
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