Which root means 'through'?

• A. Path(o)
• B. Para
• C. Per
• D. Peri

Answer: (C)

The concept tested is prefix meaning through. The Latin-derived prefix that conveys “through” is per- (as in perforate, permeate, percutaneous). It shows passage from one side to the other or through a barrier. For example, a perforation is something that goes through a structure; something permeable allows substances to pass through; percutaneous means through the skin. The other roots have different meanings: path(o) relates to disease or feeling, para means beside, near, or abnormal, and peri means around. Understanding these helps you quickly decode terms by identifying the direction or relationship described by the prefix.