Use context to identify the meaning of a word
Key Notes:
Understanding Context Clues
Definition Clues: Sometimes, the meaning of a word is directly defined in the sentence.
- Example: “The arboretum, a place where trees are grown and studied, was beautiful.”
Synonym Clues: A synonym or a word with a similar meaning is used in the sentence.
- Example: “The ancient manuscript was delicate and fragile.”
Antonym Clues: An antonym or a word with an opposite meaning is provided.
- Example: “Unlike his gregarious brother, Tim was introverted and shy.”
Example Clues: Examples are given to help explain the meaning of a word.
- Example: “Celestial bodies, such as the sun, moon, and stars, are fascinating to study.”
Inference Clues: The meaning of the word is not directly stated but can be inferred from the context.
- Example: “She felt elated after receiving the award, beaming with happiness.”
Strategies for Using Context Clues
Read the Entire Sentence:
Understanding the context of the entire sentence can help in deducing the meaning of an unfamiliar word.
Look for Punctuation:
Commas, dashes, or parentheses often set off definitions or explanations of words.
Identify Familiar Words:
Use the surrounding familiar words to infer the meaning of the unknown word.
Analyze Word Parts:
Break down the word into prefixes, suffixes, and root words to help determine its meaning.
Use the Process of Elimination:
Consider all possible meanings and eliminate those that do not make sense in the context.
Definition Clue Example:
Sentence: “The philanthropist, a person who seeks to promote the welfare of others, donated a large sum of money to charity.”
Clue: The definition is provided within the sentence.
Synonym Clue Example:
- Sentence: “She was elated, ecstatic about her new job.”
- Clue: “Ecstatic” is a synonym for “elated.”
Antonym Clue Example:
- Sentence: “The water was tranquil, unlike the turbulent ocean.”
- Clue: “Turbulent” is an antonym of “tranquil.”
Example Clue Example:
- Sentence: “Her culinary skills were impressive; she could make dishes like soufflés, quiches, and pastries.”
- Clue: The examples provide insight into her culinary skills.
Inference Clue Example:
- Sentence: “Despite the cacophony, she remained calm and composed.”
- Clue: The chaotic situation inferred by “cacophony” helps explain her calmness.