Speak Method Pro

Prefixes In, Im, Il and Ir

Prefixes	Meaning
in, im, il, ir	not
in, im, il, ir	in

The words in this lesson with in, im, il and ir have the meaning not. 
Examples of words meaning in are inherit, insert, inspire, immigrate, impact, impress, illuminate, and irrigate.
Pronunciation tips: These prefixes are pronounced with the short I sound, the sound in is. 
These prefixes are usually not stressed.
Note: In is used before words with many different spellings.
Im is usually used before words that start with M, B or P.
Il and ir are used before words that start with L and R respectively.

Answer the Questions

1. We often talk about a person speaking incoherently. This can happen when a person is nervous, sick or has had too much alcohol. Describe a time when a person’s speech was incoherent.

2. Have you ever known two people who were very incompatible? Explain.

3. Do you sometimes struggle with incompatible technologies?

4. Indifferent, dispassionate and detached are synonyms. Think of three people who fit the basic definition. Which word would you choose for each person. Why?

5. Think of one thing that you are very bad at doing, and then describe your ineptitude. 

6. Sometimes, we speak of immortality when referring to famous people. Describe one person has been immortalized by fame. 

7. Do you feel that your work performance is impeccable? Why or why not?

8. Describe a colleague whose work performance is impeccable. 

9. Now describe a colleague or acquaintance whose work is imprecise.

10. Is there something that is illegal in your country that you think could be legalized? Or is there something that is legal now, but that you think should be illegal?

11. Have you ever seen completely illegible handwriting?

12. Are there illiterate people in your country? Why or why not?

13. What is one aspect of your life right now that you consider irreplaceable? Why?

14. What is the most irresponsible thing that a person could do?

15. Describe someone who has irregular habits.

Schedule a Consultation to learn how you can improve your pronunciation, grammar and business communication.

Get more English practice here.