Parasynthesis is a language feature based on the union of a prefix and a suffix in a single word. It is, therefore, the creation of a new word from two existing lexemes. This feature is also known as the parasynthetic relationship .
Two methods for forming parasynthetic words
The first one consists in configuring a prefixed and suffixed word at the same time, that is, in the union of a prefix and a suffix to a lexeme. Thus, in the word evening there is a parasynthesis because there is a prefix (en), a lexeme (afternoon) and, finally, a suffix (er). Therefore, words impoverish, perform and orange are examples of parasynthetic words.
The second method combines derivation and composition simultaneously. Thus, in the word kneel this phenomenon occurs (knee is a lexeme, -a is the prefix and -ar the suffix). Other examples could be the following: millenarian, parachutist and multinational. Parasynthesis
Compound and Derived Words
Parasynthesis is a way of joining prefixes and suffixes to create new words. However, there are also compound words that are formed by the union of two simple words, such as cover, bookstore and wiring. On the other hand, there are derived words when a primitive word is added with a suffix, as with the words: atypical, bilateral, equitable, or epithelium.
It can be seen that the composition and derivation procedure is used in the formation of parasynthetic terms. However, derived and parasynthetic words are different matters.
If we take the term intolerant as a reference, we are faced with a derivative and not a parasynthetic word because there is no simultaneous combination of prefix and suffix linked to a lexeme.
The importance of suffixes and prefixes
In word formation (compound, derived or parasynthetic) the use of prefixes and suffixes is essential. Both are derivative morphemes added to a lexeme and allow you to create new words.
The prefix is placed in front of the lexeme or stem, as in the following terms: precooked, unhappy or discontented (in these cases the prefixes are pre, in and des). Parasynthesis
The suffix is behind the lexeme, as in the words: healthy, lodge, burn, and flourish (here the suffixes are able, mento, dura, and cer).
