Definitions

Prefix (P)

Word part attached to the beginning of a word root to modify its meaning.

Word Root (WR)

Word part that is the core of the word.  It contains the fundamental meaning of the word.

Combining Vowel (CV)

Word part used to ease pronunciation.

Combining Form (CF)

Word root and combining vowel attached, separated by vertical slash.

Suffix (S)

Word part attached to the end of the word root to modify its meaning.

Rules

When connecting a word root and a suffix, a combining vowel is used if the suffix does not begin with a vowel.

Example:  arthr/o/pathy

When connecting a word root and a suffix, a combining vowel is usually not used if the suffix begins with a vowel.

Example:  hepat/ic

When connecting two word roots, a combining vowel is usually used even if vowels are present at the junction.

Example:  oste/o/arthr/itis

When connecting a prefix and a word rood, a combing vowel is not used.

Example:  sub/hepat/ic

Breaking down words

Example:  subhepatic

sub=(P), hepat=(WR), ic=(S). 

Therefore:  sub/hepat/ic

                    P / WR /  S

Example:  osteoarthritis

oste=(WR), o=(CV), arthr=(WR), itis=(S)

Therefore, oste/o/arthr/itis

                 WR/CV/WR/S

                    CF

Example:  hepatic

hepat=(WR), ic=(S)

Therefore, hepat/ic

                  WR/S