Which prefix would indicate a position 'outside or away from'?

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Study for the Medical Terminology Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each question with explanations and hints. Ace your exam!

The prefix "ecto-" is used in medical terminology to indicate a position that is 'outside' or 'away from.' This prefix derives from the Greek word "ektos," meaning "outside." It is commonly found in terms such as "ectopic," which refers to something occurring in an abnormal position, specifically outside its usual location in the body.

In contrast, the other prefixes present different meanings. "Inter-" refers to 'between' or 'among,' indicating a relationship situated between entities. "Infer-" denotes 'below' or 'beneath,' commonly used in terms related to inferior or lower positions. "Eso-" signifies 'inward' or 'within,' often seen in words like "esophagus," which refers to the canal that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. Thus, "ecto-" is the correct choice as it specifically conveys the idea of being on the outer side or away from a reference point.

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