Context clues
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There are several ways context clues can help a reader determine the meaning of unfamiliar words from a text. These include apposition, synonyms, direct explanation, comparison, description, examples, and contrasting antonyms. Context clues provide hints about a word's meaning through other words and descriptions in the surrounding sentences.
Context clues
- 1. Context clues help a reader figure out the meaning of unfamiliar words. There are many ways to use the context, or the words around a word, to help determine its meaning.
- 2. Apposition – the meaning of a word follows the word. The appositive is usually set off by commas. The Pekingese, a small dog breed, makes a good pet. Synonyms – another word in the sentence, or in a nearby sentence, has the same meaning as the unfamiliar word. The ominous clouds were threatening rain. Direct explanation – the sentence is a definition A pension is a fixed payment to a retired person. Comparison – compares the word with something the reader can visualize; often uses like or as (simile) Like a pirates treasure chest, the coffer was overflowing with gems.
- 3. Description – the object is described, but the word is not directly defined The full petals of the chrysanthemum, and its wide variety of colors, makes it very popular. Example – gives and example of the object or action named Alvin enjoys reading and hiking. Another avocation of his is drawing. Contrast/Antonyms – gives an opposite or “unlike” clue about a word’s meaning Unlike codeine, aspirin is not a prescription pain medication.