Which prefix implies difficulty or negative condition?

The prefix that indicates difficulty or a negative condition is "Dys-." This prefix originates from the Greek word "dys," which conveys a sense of abnormality, difficulty, or impairment. It is frequently used in medical terminology to describe conditions that deviate from the normal state or that are characterized by dysfunction. For example, the term "dyslexia" refers to a difficulty with reading, while "dysfunctional" implies something is not functioning properly.

In contrast, the other prefixes convey different meanings: "Micro-" indicates something small or minute, "Poly-" suggests many or multiple, and "Contra-" refers to opposition or against. These distinctions in prefixes are critical for understanding medical terminology, as they help convey precise meanings related to health conditions and symptoms.