Definition Context Clues
Definition context clues provide the meaning of a vocabulary word directly within the sentence or surrounding text. This can be done through several methods:
1. Direct Definition:
* Example: The serene lake, meaning calm and peaceful, was a perfect spot for fishing.
* How to Identify: Look for phrases like "meaning," "which is," "that is," "or" followed by a synonym or explanation.
2. Synonym:
* Example: The intrepid explorer, fearless and brave, faced many challenges on his journey.
* How to Identify: The sentence might use a word with similar meaning to the unknown word.
3. Antonym:
* Example: While the exuberant crowd cheered loudly, the apathetic fans remained silent.
* How to Identify: The sentence might use a word with opposite meaning to the unknown word.
4. Explanation:
* Example: The capricious weather, unpredictable and changing rapidly, made planning our trip difficult.
* How to Identify: The sentence might provide a description or explanation of the unknown word's meaning.
5. Restatement:
* Example: The enigmatic message, a puzzle that was hard to understand, left us baffled.
* How to Identify: The sentence might restate the unknown word's meaning using different words.
Finding the Definition:
To find the definition using context clues, read the sentence carefully and look for words or phrases that define the unknown vocabulary word. Pay attention to the surrounding sentences as well, as they may provide further clues.
Remember:
* Context clues are not always present. You may need to use a dictionary if no clues are available.
* Practice makes perfect. The more you read and look for clues, the better you will become at identifying them.