What Are Context Clues?
Context clues are hints found in the words, phrases, and sentences surrounding an unfamiliar word that help you figure out its meaning. Skilled readers use context clues constantly to understand new vocabulary without reaching for a dictionary.
The Five Types of Context Clues
1. Definition Clues
The meaning of the word is stated directly in the sentence, often after words like "is," "means," "refers to," or set off by commas or dashes.
Example: "A herbivore, an animal that eats only plants, needs large amounts of vegetation." The definition is given right after the comma.
2. Synonym Clues
A word with a similar meaning appears nearby. Look for signal words like "also known as," "or," and "that is."
Example: "The elated, or overjoyed, winner jumped up and down." The synonym "overjoyed" tells you what "elated" means.
3. Antonym Clues
A word with the opposite meaning is used nearby. Signal words include "but," "however," "unlike," "instead," and "on the other hand."
Example: "Unlike her timid sister, Maya was bold and outgoing." "Bold and outgoing" is the opposite, so "timid" means shy and cautious.
4. Example Clues
Examples are given that illustrate the meaning of the word. Look for "such as," "for example," "including," and "like."
Example: "Nocturnal animals, such as owls, bats, and raccoons, are most active at night." The examples all suggest nighttime activity.
5. Inference Clues
No direct definition is given. You must use your reasoning and the overall meaning of the passage to infer the word's meaning.
Example: "After the long hike through the desert, the parched travelers drank three bottles of water each." You can infer "parched" means extremely thirsty.
Practice: Find the Context Clues
Read each sentence and click to reveal the meaning of the bold word and the type of clue used.
"The arid climate receives less than 10 inches of rain per year."Arid = extremely dry. Clue type: Definition — the detail about low rainfall defines the climate.
"She was benevolent, always helping others and donating to charity."Benevolent = kind and generous. Clue type: Example — the examples of helping and donating illustrate the meaning.
"The movie was mundane; however, the sequel was exciting and thrilling."Mundane = dull and ordinary. Clue type: Antonym — "however" signals contrast with "exciting and thrilling."
"The teacher asked the students to collaborate, or work together, on the project."Collaborate = work together. Clue type: Synonym — "or work together" gives the synonym directly.
"After waiting in line for two hours in the rain, the exasperated customers began to leave."Exasperated = extremely annoyed and frustrated. Clue type: Inference — the long wait in bad conditions implies frustration.
"Transparency, meaning openness and honesty, is important in government."Transparency = openness and honesty. Clue type: Definition — "meaning" introduces the direct definition.
Tips for Using Context Clues
Step 1: Read the entire sentence (and sometimes the sentences before and after).
Step 2: Look for signal words (such as, or, but, however, meaning, unlike).
Step 3: Substitute your guess for the unknown word and check if the sentence still makes sense.
Step 4: If still unsure, check a dictionary to confirm.