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Guest Posted 22 years ago
Grammar

What is the function of 'be' in words like befriend, belittle...?

Hello,

I'm looking for an explanation to the usage of 'be' before a word.

If anyone can help, it will be most appreciated.

Bewildered
  

Top answer

Webster's Encyclopedic Dictionary says: be-, a native English prefix formerly used in the formation of verbs: become, besiege, befriend. Longman's Dictionary of English Language and Culture says: be-, in verbs, to treat as the stated thing: "Don't belittle him" (= Don't say he is unimportant), "She befriended me" (= She became my friend). Miriam

— Miriam

  • Webster's Encyclopedic Dictionary says: be-, a native English prefix formerly used in the formation of verbs: become, besiege, befriend.
  • Longman's Dictionary of English Language and Culture says: be-, in verbs, to treat as the stated thing: "Don't belittle him" (= Don't say he is unimportant), "She befriended me" (= She became my friend).
  • Miriam
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3 Answers
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Webster's Encyclopedic Dictionary says:
be-, a native English prefix formerly used in the formation of verbs: become, besiege, befriend.

Longman's Dictionary of English Language and Culture says:
be-, in verbs, to treat as the stated thing: "Don't belittle him" (= Don't say he is unimportant), "She befriended me" (= She became my friend).

Miriam
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Hello Miriam,

Thankyou for taking the time to help. It is comforting to know that people care.

Once Bewildered
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You're most welcome. Emotion: smile
The forums are full of helpful and caring people.

Miriam
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