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What would the root meaning of the word inescapable be?

a. to go
b. get away
c. sure
d. made new

User Sabadow
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The root meaning of the word 'inescapable' is most closely related to the concept of not being able to get away, due to the Latin root 'capere' meaning 'to take or catch.' Therefore, the correct option is (b) get away.

Step-by-step explanation:

The word inescapable can be broken down into parts to understand its root meaning. The prefix 'in-' means 'not,' 'es-' comes from the Latin 'ex-' which often means 'out of,' and the root 'capere' means 'to take or catch.' So, combining these parts, the concept of 'inescapable' relates to something from which you cannot get out of or be released, indicating something that is unavoidable or certain. Thus, the root meaning is most closely associated with not being able to get away, making the option (b) get away the correct answer.

In understanding the meaning of inescapable, it is essential to recognize how each part of the word contributes to its overall meaning. The prefix 'in-' negates the concept, while 'capere' brings the idea of capturing or taking. When used in the English language, inescapable often describes a situation, outcome, or truth that one cannot avoid, and therefore is considered certain or sure. This foundational understanding can apply to a range of contexts, from physical situations where escaping is not possible to metaphorical circumstances such as the inevitability of certain consequences or truths.

Rounding out this explanation, while 'made new' (d) could be a tempting choice given that 'in-' can imply into or toward in some contexts, it does not make sense in this case, as there is no conventional root or language structure that associates 'capere' with the concept of being made new. Similarly, 'to go' (a) and 'sure' (c) are unrelated to the specific root meaning we're interested in, which is emphasized by the 'escape' portion of the word.

User Stijn Janssen
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