Before you look up an unfamiliar word in the dictionary should first try to determine its?

Before you look up an unfamiliar word in the dictionary, you should first try to determine its meaning from context.

Here's why:

* Saves time and effort: Looking up every unfamiliar word can be time-consuming and interrupt your reading flow.

* Improves comprehension: Trying to figure out the meaning from context helps you engage with the text and develop a deeper understanding.

* Develops vocabulary: This practice strengthens your ability to infer meaning and expand your vocabulary organically.

Here are some strategies for determining meaning from context:

* Look for clues within the sentence: Are there synonyms, antonyms, or examples that provide hints?

* Consider the surrounding sentences: How does the word fit into the overall paragraph or passage?

* Think about the topic and author's purpose: What is the general subject matter? What is the author trying to convey?

Of course, if you're still unsure of the meaning after trying these strategies, then using a dictionary is the best option!