Response:
Restate the question: The question asks for the meaning of the word "conjecture" based on the context clues provided in the sentence about Stanley.
Answer the question: Based on the context clues, the word "conjecture" means to make an assumption or a guess without sufficient evidence.
Reference evidence from the text: The sentence states that Stanley had "so few clues" that "all he could do was hopelessly conjecture as to what the word might mean." This suggests that Stanley could not find definitive answers or evidence, leading him to make a guess instead. The use of "hopelessly" implies that his guess was made in desperation due to the lack of information.
Explain the significance: This context indicates that "conjecture" involves forming an opinion based on incomplete information or speculation, which aligns with Stanley's experience in trying to understand the vocabulary word. The clues of "few clues" and "hopelessly" highlight the uncertainty inherent in conjecture, strengthening the understanding of its meaning.