WORD STUDY
LATIN PREFIX COUNTER-
The Latin prefix counter- comes from the Latin contra and means, "against." For
example, the word counteract means "act against (something) in order to reduce
its force or neutralize it."
A. DIRECTIONS: Each word below uses the prefix counter-. Circle the word that fits in
each sentence.
1. Our initial assault was repulsed and we took up positions behind our
fortifications awaiting a
A. counterargument
B. counterattack
2. We needed to put more weight in the back of the canoe to
load in the front.
A counterbalance
B. counterblow
3. After being falsely accused by my neighbor of stealing his ladder, I leveled a
that he had, in fact, stolen my ladder.
A. counterculture
4. I was sent to work in
spy outfit.
B. DIRECTIONS: Reread the sentences in Part A. Then, write the word that
corresponds to the definition. Remember that either word may be used.
A. counterespionage
B. counterexample
5. The United States increased its atomic arsenal as a
U.S.S.R.
A. counterfactual
B. countercharge
to attempt an infiltration into a foreign
the
B. counterforce
against the
activities designed to prevent or thwart spying by an enemy
: an attack made in response to one by an enemy or opponent
an accusation made in turn by someone against their accuser
:a force or action that checks another
a weight that balances another weight