What does the prefix OLIG indicate?

What does the prefix OLIG indicate?

• A. Around
• B. Less Than Normal
• C. Many
• D. After, Behind

Answer: (B)

olig- indicates a small amount or deficiency, meaning less than normal. This makes it the best fit for describing something that isn’t abundant or is scant. For example, oliguria refers to reduced urine production, and oligomenorrhea means lighter or less frequent menses. In contrast, prefixes meaning around (peri-), many (poly-), or after/behind (post-, retro-) don’t capture the idea of being diminished in amount. So the correct meaning is less than normal.

olig- indicates a small amount or deficiency, meaning less than normal. This makes it the best fit for describing something that isn’t abundant or is scant. For example, oliguria refers to reduced urine production, and oligomenorrhea means lighter or less frequent menses. In contrast, prefixes meaning around (peri-), many (poly-), or after/behind (post-, retro-) don’t capture the idea of being diminished in amount. So the correct meaning is less than normal.