Using context clues to determine the meaning of an unfamiliar word can be effectively achieved through several strategies. Here are five key strategies:
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Definition or Explanation Clues: Look for a definition or explanation provided within the same sentence or in the following sentences. Authors often define difficult words outright. For example, "The arboreal creatures, such as monkeys and sloths, live in trees."
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Synonyms: Identify words or phrases that are synonymous with the unfamiliar word. These synonyms can help clarify meaning by providing a similar word. For example, "The film was a complete disaster; it was a total failure."
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Antonyms: Recognizing contrasting words can also provide insight. If a word is introduced alongside an antonym, it can help define the unfamiliar word. For example, "Unlike her gregarious brother, who loves to socialize, she was quite reticent."
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Examples: Authors often provide examples that can clarify the meaning of a word. Look for phrases like "such as" or "for instance," which introduce particular examples. For example, "The desert environment is hostile to many living things, including cacti, lizards, and rattlesnakes."
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Inferences: Use your understanding of the overall context to make educated guesses about the word's meaning based on the overall theme or situation in the text. For example, if a character is described as feeling "melancholy" after receiving bad news, you can infer that "melancholy" relates to sadness.
By employing these strategies, readers can effectively deduce the meanings of unfamiliar words and enhance their comprehension of the text.
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