Analyze the word urbane to provide a possible meaning based on its base word and affix(es). Explain how the context clues in the sentence help you confirm or revise your predicted definition of urbane and explain your process for figuring out its meaning.

Answer 1

The base word of "urbane" is "urban," which refers to a city or characteristic of a city. The suffix "-ane" is often used to form adjectives in English, indicating a particular quality or characteristic. Therefore, based on the base word and suffix, "urbane" likely refers to something that is sophisticated, refined, or characteristic of city life.

In the sentence provided, "Her urbane manner and elegant attire made her stand out in the small town," the context clues of "urbane manner" and "elegant attire" suggest that being urbane is associated with being sophisticated, stylish, and possibly cosmopolitan. This aligns with the predicted definition based on the base word "urban" and the suffix "-ane."

To figure out the meaning of "urbane," I first looked at the base word "urban" and its association with cities. Then, I considered the suffix "-ane" and its function in creating adjectives. This helped me infer that "urbane" likely meant something sophisticated or refined. The context clues in the sentence further supported this prediction by describing someone with an urbane manner and elegant attire.