What prefix indicates something false or fake?

Prepare for the Wellstar Certified Medical Assistant CMA Test with flashcards and multiple-choice questions featuring hints and explanations. Get ready for your certification exam!

The prefix that indicates something false or fake is "Pseud/o-." This prefix is derived from the Greek word "pseudes," which means false or deceptive. It is commonly used in various medical and scientific terms to describe conditions, symptoms, or entities that are not genuine or authentic. For instance, "pseudonym" refers to a fictitious name used by an author, and "pseudoscience" pertains to claims or beliefs that are presented as science but lack supporting evidence or scientific basis.

In contrast, the other prefixes do not carry the connotation of falsehood. "Dys-" refers to difficulty or abnormality, as seen in terms like "dysfunction," which indicates improper functioning. "Micro-" denotes something small or tiny, such as in "microorganism," indicating organisms that are too small to be seen with the naked eye. "Bio-" relates to life, as used in "biological" or "biopsy," which pertain to living organisms and life processes. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the specific meaning associated with "Pseud/o-" as denoting inauthenticity.

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