Which prefix means 'not' typically used before vowels?

• A. A-
• B. Infra-
• C. An-
• D. Endo-

Answer: (C)

A negation prefix that smooths pronunciation before a vowel is used. An- carries the meaning of not or without and is chosen specifically because the root begins with a vowel, making the word easier to say. You’ll see it in terms like anesthesia (lack of sensation) or anemia (lack of red blood cells). The other negation form, a-, is used before consonants (for example, atypical, atheist), while infra- means below and endo- means within. So the best fit for “not” before vowels is an-.