Synonym Context Clues
* Definition: Words or phrases in a sentence that provide a similar meaning to the unknown word.
* How to identify: The synonym clue will often be connected to the unknown word by words like: "or," "that is," "in other words," "also known as," "similar to," "like," "means."
* Example: "The arduous journey was long and tiring, laborious and filled with challenges." (The word "laborious" is a synonym for "arduous").
Antonym Context Clues
* Definition: Words or phrases in a sentence that provide an opposite meaning to the unknown word.
* How to identify: The antonym clue will often be connected to the unknown word by words like: "but," "however," "on the other hand," "in contrast," "unlike," "instead of," "whereas."
* Example: "The meek little mouse was quiet and shy, unlike the bold and brave rat." (The word "bold" is an antonym for "meek").
Key Differences
* Meaning: Synonyms provide a similar meaning, while antonyms offer the opposite meaning.
* Identifying words: Synonym clues use words that indicate similarity, while antonym clues use words that indicate contrast.
How Context Clues Help
Both synonym and antonym context clues help readers understand the meaning of unfamiliar words by providing a point of reference. They allow readers to infer the meaning of the unknown word based on the context of the sentence or passage.