Oh Language -20
Prefixes can help to imply changes in meaning of words, as we have so far noticed in previous episodes.
There are also some other prefixes that serve to alter the sense conveyed. One
such is ‘Ir’- as a prefix.
Irrational
The term points to the lack of valid reason or any defensible fact for an
action or observation.-as in It is irrational
to seek explanation from a lunatic.
Irreconcilable
The term refers to a mental disposition under which a person is disturbed
to the extent of not accepting the reality; so, [s]he is unable to
reconcile.
Irrefutable
The term refers to the ‘validity’ of truth in an argument that it cannot
be proved wrong or untenable ;so, the argument [cannot be refuted] has to be accepted.
Irrelevant
The term refers to the non-suitability of purpose. While condemning any
act of violence, it is irrelevant to
cite precedence for such acts.
Irreproachable
The term implies that a person who is not guilty of any wrong cannot be
criticized or found fault with. So, the person is not ‘reproachable’.
Irregular
The term refers to the state of appearance of an object [without a form
or shape] or to a habitual pattern of disorderly participation. The ball has
been badly damaged that it looks ‘irregular’. The boy chooses to abstain from
class and is irregular to school.
Irresolute
The term refers to an attitude of mental ‘uncertainty’ or ‘not being
determined’ in doing a thing. Irresolute minds cannot sustain the drive required
to face odds.
Irreversible
The term refers to the state of progression and implies that the event
cannot be stopped or diverted to a new course. The war has taken a deep root
that the fate of civilians looks ‘irreversible’.
The health of the old man is fast deteriorating and restoring his
condition appears ‘irreversible’.
Irrevocable
The term is used to suggest the fate of a decision that cannot be changed
or revised –meaning that the decision is final and not negotiable.
All the terms considered in the present episode have the prefix-‘Ir’ and
their ‘opposite’ forms begin in the consonant ‘R’. But the terms discussed in
earlier episodes had the prefix either ‘Im’ or ‘In’ and their opposites begin in any consonant
‘a’, ‘c’, ‘d’, ‘e’, ‘f’’, ‘g’ etcetera but not in ‘r’. At least it is easy to infer
that ‘phonetic convenience is a matter of importance in adopting such
word-formations. Hopefully, these are clear and intelligible.
