What is an affix?

An affix is a bound form that is attached to a word to modify its meaning. This includes prefixes, which are added to the beginning of a word, and suffixes, which are added to the end. Affixes help create new words or change the grammatical function of a base word.

For example, the word "happy" can become "unhappy" when the prefix "un-" is added, or "happiness" when the suffix "-ness" is appended. This shows how affixes can significantly alter the meaning and usage of the original word.

In contrast, other choices do not accurately describe affixes. A complete word refers to a standalone term, a type of punctuation pertains to symbols used in writing, and an independent clause refers to a group of words that can stand alone as a sentence. None of these concepts involve the modification or construction of words through attachment as an affix does.