WORD FORMATION PRACTICE

UPDATE: KEY PRACTICE TEST 3 + PDF INTRODUCTION In the real exam, youll cope with very challenging questions about word formation which you cannot simply add suffixes or prefixes you already know, or are taught at school (such as -ABLE, -ISE, DIS-, UN-, etc.) For example: The village is set amongst the most _____ scenery. (BREATHE) Clearly, we need to find an adjective to fill in the blank. Many students immediately think of BREATHLESS (which means finding difficult to breathe). However, the correct answer is BREATHTAKING (meaning impressive) about which just a very few students may know. Another example is: They won the case because of the _____ of the defendant. (APPEAR) Again, some students may choose DISAPPEARANCE and are sure about their answer. However, the correct one to fill out the blank is NON-APPEARANCE. Sometimes, you have to deal with stranger forms of a word. Take this example into consideration: There are a variety of different ways to make a watch _____, one of which is using O rings or rubber gaskets to seal the back of the case. (WATER) They keyword given is very simple. Unfortunately, you dont know any adjective formed from WATER. Some may come up with MOUTH-WATERING but it isnt suitable in the context. The correct answer is WATER-RESISTANT or WATERPROOF. (Theres a little different in meaning between the two words, but generally we can choose both.) Another kind of challenging question is using PHRASAL NOUNS (nouns that are formed from PHRASAL VERBS): 1. There has been a series of _____ in this area recently. Fortunately, it will be under control soon. (BREAK) 2. Jo was only 19 when he got his _____ as a DJ. (BREAK) Key: 1. BREAK-INS 2. BREAKTHROUGH This post provides you with such practice. I hope that itll be helpful for you in preparation for the coming exam to schools for the gifted.