USING CONTEXT CLUES

Using context clues means figuring out the meaning of an unfamiliar word by examining the words and sentences around it. Context clues help you make an educated guess about the word’s meaning based on how it is used within the text. This is a valuable skill because it allows you to understand new words without always having to look them up in a dictionary.

There are several types of context clues you can use:

1. Definition or Explanation Clues

Sometimes the meaning of the word is directly explained in the sentence or the following sentence.

Example:

“The city was placed under quarantine, which means that no one could enter or leave until the virus was contained.”

• The phrase “which means that no one could enter or leave” explains the meaning of “quarantine.”

2. Synonym Clues

The text may use a synonym, a word with a similar meaning, to help clarify the unfamiliar word.

Example:

“She was known for her benevolence, or kindness, toward the poor in her community.”

• The word “kindness” serves as a synonym for “benevolence.”

3. Antonym or Contrast Clues

An unfamiliar word’s meaning can be understood through a contrast or opposite word in the sentence.

Example:

“Unlike her garrulous sister, who loved to talk all day, Maria was quiet and reserved.”

• The contrast between “garrulous” and “quiet” indicates that “garrulous” means talkative or overly talkative.

4. Example Clues

Examples provided in the sentence can help clarify the meaning of an unfamiliar word.

Example:

“He had a variety of culinary skills, including baking, grilling, and sautéing.”

• The examples of cooking skills suggest that “culinary” relates to cooking or the kitchen.

5. General Inference

Sometimes you can infer the meaning of a word by understanding the general sense of the sentence or paragraph.

Example:

“The ominous clouds began to gather, and a strong wind started to howl. It seemed like a storm was imminent.”

• Based on the dark clouds and strong wind, you can infer that “ominous” suggests something threatening or dangerous.

Example of Using Context Clues

Sentence: “After the marathon, he was completely exhausted. He collapsed on the couch and didn’t move for hours.”

• Context clues: “Collapsed on the couch” and “didn’t move for hours” suggest that “exhausted” means extremely tired.

By practicing using context clues, you can improve your reading comprehension and vocabulary in a natural and efficient way.