Understanding Prefixes: Un, Dis, Im, Mis

A prefix is suffix which is always placed in the beginning of the root of a word to change its meaning and may not be written separately (with space). Particularly in the linguistics, a prefix is also called preformative.  For example, re + verb means doing something again, back as in return, repeat or refurbish.

These are four prefix which is something very confusing because they all have negative meaning. I am interested to explain this kind of prefix that I found a question about this in a TOEFL test.

un-
The prefix un means not, reverse action, deprive of, release from. For example, unable or unfair.

mis-
The prefix mis means wrong. For example, mistake or misunderstand.

dis-
The prefix dis also means not and opposite of. For example, disconnect.

im-
The prefix im can also mean not and opposite of. For example, impossible.

Have you figured it out? Well, please note that not all word can use prefixes above. To sharpen your understanding you should join quiz about prefix.