The prefix ‘il’ is typically used in the English language to denote a negation or opposition of the root word it precedes. It originates from the Latin prefix ‘in-‘, which also means ‘not’. When ‘il’ is added to a word, it alters the meaning to express a contrary concept.
For example, when ‘il’ is prefixed to the word ‘legal’, it creates the word ‘illegal’, meaning not legal or against the law. This usage is prevalent in various contexts, especially in legal and formal language, where the distinction between lawful and unlawful is crucial.
Understanding the implications of prefixes like ‘il’ can significantly enhance your vocabulary and comprehension skills, allowing you to grasp the nuances in language more effectively.