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Difficulty: EasyLatin Roots

What is the primary meaning of the Latin root *dict*, found in words such as dictate, predict, and verdict?

  1. A
    To write or record
  2. To speak or sayAnswer
  3. C
    To lead or direct
  4. D
    To hear or listen

Answer

To speak or say
The Latin root 'dict' comes from the Latin verb 'dicere', meaning 'to speak' or 'to say'. Words built on this root center on vocalizing or stating words: 'predict' (to speak beforehand), 'dictate' (to say words aloud to be written down), and 'verdict' (to speak the truth).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the common root morpheme across the sample words.
The common Latin root in 'dictate', 'predict', and 'verdict' is 'dict'.
Isolating the root allows for precise morphological analysis.
2
Analyze the structural definitions of the provided examples.
'Predict' means to speak before an event occurs; 'dictate' means to speak words for another to record; 'verdict' means to speak the truth.
Connecting shared contexts reveals the core foundational meaning of the root morpheme.
3
Select the definition matching the core meaning of the root.
The foundational meaning of the Latin root 'dict' is 'to speak or say'.
This directly aligns with the etymological definition derived from the Latin verb 'dicere'.

Key Concept

Foundational meaning of the Latin root 'dict'
Estimated Time:45s
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Latin Roots

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