Context Clues

Whether you go on to college or to a job, you are going to meet an increasing number of new and unfamiliar words. Sometimes the context of an unfamiliar word will give you a definite clue to the meaning of the word. Here are four common types of context clues.

1. Definition. The most obvious and straightforward method of revealing meaning is by outright definition. A form of the verb “to be” signals a definition.

The sycophant can be found wherever there is power; he is the individual who works his way into favor with flattery.

2. Restatement. Sometimes a writer will explain a term by restating it in other words. Certain words act as signals that a restatement will follow. These signals are: in other words, that is, to put it another way, or, this means.

Sara was ambivalent about Jack. She couldn’t decide whether she admired him for leaving medical school to be a painter, or whether she considered him reckless and immature.

3. Example. One pr more examples are given to show the meaning of a word. Words that signal are these: such, such as, like, other, especially, particularly, for example, for instance.

There must be international agreement on punishments for hijacking and kidnapping. Such guerilla tactics cannot be tolerated by one nation without all nations being threatened.

4. Contrast. Occasionally a writer will make contrast that enables you to grasp the meaning of an unfamiliar word.

Unlike the other members of the band who resurfaced in other groups in later years, James was lost to the public after his meteoric fame as the lead singer.