What is a primary reason why root words are significant in understanding vocabulary?

Root words are fundamental to vocabulary comprehension because they serve as the building blocks from which many other words are formed. Understanding a root word allows a person to decode and derive the meanings of related words, enhancing overall vocabulary knowledge. For example, if someone understands the root "spect," which means "to see," they can better analyze words like "inspect," "spectator," or "spectrum" by recognizing their shared connection to sight. This foundational understanding not only improves individual word comprehension but also aids in grasping more complex or unfamiliar terms that are derived from the same root.