The prefix "hypo-" can best be described as?

The prefix "hypo-" is derived from Greek, meaning "under," "below," or "insufficient." It is commonly used in medical terminology to indicate a condition of deficiency or lower than normal levels of something. For example, when we refer to "hypoglycemia," we are talking about blood sugar levels that are below the normal range.

In the context of the question, "below; insufficient" captures the essence of the prefix accurately, making it the best choice. Understanding this prefix is important in the medical field, as it helps to communicate various conditions effectively, such as hypoactive or hypotensive, which denote lower than normal activity or blood pressure, respectively. This clear definition aids healthcare professionals in diagnosing and treating patients based on observable symptoms and laboratory results.