Question

Which of the following words is formed through back-formation?

• A. Burglar → Burgle
• B. Telephone → Phone
• C. Mathematics → Maths
• D. Gymnasium → Gym

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Burglar → Burgle

• The word "burgle" is formed through back-formation from the word "burglar". 

• Back-formation is when a new word is created by removing a supposed affix from an existing word, and in this case, "burgle" is essentially created by taking the noun "burglar" and removing the "ar" suffix to form a verb. 

• "Burglar" existed first, and then "burgle" was derived from it, making it a classic example of back-formation.