Here's a breakdown:
Types of Morphemes:
* Free Morphemes: These can stand alone as words. Examples: "cat", "run", "happy".
* Bound Morphemes: These must be attached to other morphemes to have meaning. They often change the meaning or grammatical function of a word. Examples: "-ing" (running), "-ed" (played), "un-" (unhappy).
Examples:
* "Cat": This is a free morpheme, a single word with meaning.
* "Cats": This has two morphemes: "cat" (free) and "-s" (bound, plural).
* "Unbreakable": This has three morphemes: "un-" (bound, negative prefix), "break" (free), "-able" (bound, suffix, meaning capable of).
Understanding Morphemes:
* Meaning: Morphemes carry meaning, even if they don't stand alone as words.
* Grammar: They help with grammar, indicating tense, number, or other grammatical functions.
* Word Formation: They are the building blocks for new words.
Let me know if you'd like to explore morphemes in more detail!