Which suffix means 'destroying'?

• A. -itis
• B. -plasty
• C. -emia
• D. -lysis

Answer: (D)

The idea being tested is recognizing a suffix that means breaking down or destroying. The suffix -lysis comes from a Greek root meaning to loosen or dissolve, so when attached to a word stem it denotes destruction or dissolution of that thing. For example, hemolysis is the destruction of red blood cells, thrombolysis (or thrombolysis) is the dissolution of a clot, and hydrolysis is chemical breakdown with water. In contrast, -itis means inflammation, -plasty means surgical repair or shaping, and -emia refers to a blood condition. Therefore, -lysis is the suffix that means destroying.