Using context clues helps you understand the meaning of new words by providing hints and information surrounding the unfamiliar word. When you encounter a word you don’t know, context clues can come from various sources within the text, such as:
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Synonyms: Words or phrases that have similar meanings may be found nearby, which can help infer the meaning of the new word.
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Antonyms: Words that express the opposite meaning can show what the unfamiliar word does not mean, giving insight into its meaning.
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Definitions: Sometimes, the text may include a direct definition or explanation of the word right next to it.
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Examples: The author might provide examples that illustrate how the word is used, clarifying its meaning through context.
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Inferences: Understanding the overall context of the sentence or paragraph can help you make educated guesses about the word based on the themes or concepts being discussed.
By paying attention to these clues, you can often deduce the meaning of new vocabulary without needing to look it up, which enhances reading comprehension and vocabulary acquisition.