* Words are rarely used in isolation. They exist in a web of relationships with other words, phrases, and even punctuation.
* The surrounding text provides hints. By analyzing the words and sentences around an unknown word, you can often deduce its meaning.
* Context helps define the word's function. Is the unfamiliar word used positively or negatively? Does it describe an action, a person, or a thing? The context provides valuable clues.
Types of Context Clues:
* Definition/Explanation: The word is directly defined or explained within the sentence or paragraph.
* Synonym/Restatement: The word is replaced by a synonym or a similar phrase.
* Example/Illustration: Examples are given to help you understand the meaning of the word.
* Contrast/Antonym: The word's opposite is used, allowing you to deduce its meaning by contrasting it.
* Inference/Logic: You must use logic and reasoning to infer the meaning of the word based on the surrounding context.
Example:
"The archaic language of the poem was difficult to understand."
Here, "archaic" is the unfamiliar word. The context tells us the poem's language was "difficult to understand." We can infer that "archaic" means "old-fashioned" or "outdated."
Important Note: While context clues are powerful, they're not foolproof. Sometimes, you may need to consult a dictionary to confirm the meaning of a word.