Context+Clues

=Building Vocabulary: Using Context Clues to Learn Word Meaning= When authors write, they often include context clues to the meaning of words they think that readers may not know. The context clue is usually presented in the sentence or paragraph in which the word occurs. Below are six types of context clues authors may use to help readers understand the meanings of difficult words.

1. Definition context clue
Authors may include a definition to help the reader understand the meaning of a word. In the following example, "tainted" is defined as having a disease. > //The people of the town were warned not to eat the tainted fish. The local newspaper published a bulletin in which readers were clearly told that eating fish that had a disease could be very dangerous. This was especially true for fish caught in Lake Jean.//

2. Synonym context clue
The author includes a synonym to help the reader understand the meaning of a word. In the following example, the synonym "sympathy" helps the reader understand the meaning of "compassion." > //After seeing the picture of the abused puppy, we all felt compassion and sympathy for their suffering.//

3. Antonym context clue
Authors may include an antonym to help the reader understand the meaning of a word. In the following example, the antonym "eager" helps the reader understand the meaning of "reluctant." > //It was imperative for Tim to get home on time so that he could complete his homework before having to go to work. On the other hand, getting home was of no concern for Stacy because her night was free.//

4. Description context clue
The author includes one or more descriptions to help the reader understand the meaning of a word. In the following example, descriptions of President Kennedy as having charm, enthusiasm, and a magnetic personality help the reader understand the meaning of "charismatic." > //Aidan McDonnell, the class president, improved our school. He is a very charismatic president. People are attracted to his enthusiasm. His personality is described as magnetic.//

-Adapted from How-To-Study.com

Context Clues Questions