How to use the prefix re

The prefixes are groups of letters that precede a word allowing to form a new one with a completely different meaning. One of the most used in the Spanish language is the prefix re-, and in the same way that others can generate doubts when it comes to having to write it, asking if we should write it together with the word that accompanies it or, on the contrary, separate it even with a script. If you want to solve this question, pay attention to the following article and discover how to use the prefix re- correct.

Meaning of prefix re-

According to the dictionary of the Royal Spanish Academy, the prefix re- may be used under the following meanings:

  • "Repetition". Examples: redo or rebuild .
  • "Backward movement". Examples: rewind or reflow .
  • "Denotes intensification or emphasis". Example: recharge
  • "Opposition or resistance". Example: reject

It should be noted that the prefix re- may also be used together adjectives or adverbs to reinforce its value of intensification, and that in this case it must be joined to other syllables like -te or - quete, for example: retebueno, requetebueno, requetebién .

How to type the prefix re-: together, separated or hyphenated

According to the rules established by the RAE regarding the use of prefixes, all must be written next to the base word that precede. Thus, in general, you should not use the script or write the prefix re- separated from the term it accompanies.

Examples:

reconstruct, revalue, repugn, reactivate, retemprano.

Can I use the prefix with hyphen or write it separately?

It is convenient to point out that although the rules of writing referring to prefixes do contemplate the use of the script when the base word starts with a capital letter, as well as writing them separately if several words with a single meaning follow, in the case of the prefix re - these cases are not applicable .

And it is that, due to the meanings to which it refers, it does not make sense to use it before proper names or to precede a group of words with a unitary meaning. However, these cases are applicable in prefixes such as anti- ex-, for example in anti-labor conflicts or ex-Beatle .