How Well Do You Know These 20 “Un-” Words?

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Reading & Practice Time: 15 Minutes

Ah, the confusing world of English prefixes! For IELTS candidates, understanding words with prefixes can sometimes feel like walking through a minefield. But fear not, for the mighty prefix “un-” is here to save the day! By simply attaching “un-” to the beginning of a word, its original meaning magically changes into its exact opposite.

Imagine a sleepy cat, purring away happily on your lap – now picture that same kitty in an “un-believable” state of distress, and voilà! You’ve solved the mystery of “un-” words. So, if you run into unfamiliar language during your IELTS quest, remember: un-locking the power of the -un prefix can un-doubtedly guide you towards un-precedented success!

 

Check This Out!

Here’s a list of 20 awesome words “un-” prefix! They’re perfect for crushing the IELTS Reading section and can give you that boost of English understanding you need. Each one starts with the super helpful prefix “un-“:

1. Unacceptable: Not satisfactory or allowable.
2. Unaware: Lacking knowledge or consciousness of something.
3. Unbelievable: Difficult to believe; incredible.
4. Unborn: Not yet born.
5. Uncommon: Not happening frequently; unusual.
6. Uncomfortable: Causing discomfort or unease.
7. Unconditional: Not subject to conditions or limitations.
8. Undeniable: Unable to be denied or disputed.
9. Underdone: Not sufficiently cooked.
10. Undergraduate: Relating to a university course leading to a first degree.
11. Unexpected: Not anticipated or foreseen.
12. Unfamiliar: Not known or recognized.
13. Unforeseen: Not predicted or anticipated.
14. Unforgettable: Impossible to forget; memorable.
15. Unfortunate: Having or bringing bad luck.
16. Unhappy: Feeling or showing sorrow; not content.
17. Unique: One of a kind; unlike anything else.
18. Universal: Applying to all cases, people, or things.
19. Unstable: Liable to change or fail; not firmly established.
20. Unsuccessful: Not achieving the desired outcome or goal.

Understanding the meanings of these words and their appropriate usage can enhance your comprehension of reading passages and improve your score in the IELTS Reading test.

 

Reading Exercise 1

The reading text below discusses the effect of playing computer games on the way children’s social skills develop over time. The text contains some of the 20 words above, starting with un-. Try to understand the ideas in the sentences and paragraphs using your knowledge of their meanings.  

How Video Games Impact Children’s Social Skills

Video games have become an integral part of children’s lives, offering a source of entertainment and a means of escape from reality. However, their impact on children’s social skills is a topic of concern. The negative consequences are undeniable, as some children become so engrossed in virtual worlds that they neglect real-life social interactions, making them uncomfortable in face-to-face situations. This lack of practice in real-world social settings can lead to underdeveloped social skills, making it difficult for these children to make friends or communicate effectively.

Excessive video gaming can also have unforeseen repercussions on children’s emotional well-being. Some games expose players to violent or inappropriate content, making them desensitized to the real-world impacts of such actions. Moreover, the sense of achievement gained from video games can create unrealistic expectations in real life, leading to disappointment and unhappiness when faced with challenging situations.

It is crucial to recognize the unique challenges that video games pose to children’s social skills and emotional development. While some gaming experiences can be educational and stimulating, it is essential to strike a balance between the virtual and real worlds. Encouraging children to engage in a variety of activities, both online and offline, can help them develop a well-rounded set of social skills, ensuring they are better equipped to navigate the complexities of the world around them.

 

Reading Exercise 2

Fill in the blanks with the appropriate words from the options provided.

Video games have become an integral part of children’s lives, offering a source of entertainment and a means of (1) __________ from reality. However, their impact on children’s social skills is a topic of concern. The (2) __________ consequences are undeniable, as some children become so engrossed in virtual worlds that they neglect real-life social interactions, making them (3) __________ in face-to-face situations. This lack of practice in real-world social settings can lead to underdeveloped social skills, making it difficult for these children to make friends or communicate effectively.

Excessive video gaming can also have (4) __________ repercussions on children’s emotional well-being. Some games expose players to violent or inappropriate content, making them desensitized to the real-world impacts of such actions. Moreover, the sense of achievement gained from video games can create (5) __________ expectations in real life, leading to disappointment and unhappiness when faced with challenging situations.

Options:

1. a. escape b. activity c. influence
2. a. unforeseen b. positive c. negative
3. a. comfortable b. unfamiliar c. uncomfortable
4. a. unknown b. unforeseen c. unforgettable
5. a. realistic b. unrealistic c. successful

Answer Key:

1. a. escape
2. c. negative
3. c. uncomfortable
4. b. unforeseen
5. b. unrealistic

In conclusion

The importance of grasping the most common prefixes in the English language cannot be overstated. These seemingly small components have the power to unlock a vast treasure trove of vocabulary and significantly enhance one’s language proficiency. For English learners, familiarity with prefixes such as “un-” serves as a guiding light, showing the path to a deeper understanding of word meanings. With the knowledge of prefixes, language enthusiasts can enrich their communication skills, boost their overall language competence, and ultimately achieve a newfound level in their IELTS journey.

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