Context Clues

5

TYPES OF CONTEXT CLUES

Direct Definition Clue The meaning of the unknown word is provided by a direct definition or explanation.

Signals that a direct definition is being given include means, which is ,

is, which are

Direct Definition Clue Example: A micrometer small distances.

is

an instrument used with a telescope or microscope for measuring

Direct Definition Clue Example: animal which has a stiff outer covering.

Crustacean

means

a crusted

Synonym/Restatement Clue The meaning of a word can be acquired by examining a phrase that restates or paraphrases a preceding or following word.

Signals that a restatement is being given include typographical clues such as commas, dashes, parentheses and word clues such as

or, that is, in other words

Synonym/Restatement Clue Example: Many mackerel can be caught by seining , snaring with nets.

Synonym/Restatement Clue Example: A very important part of the cell is the nucleus,

or

control center of all cell activity.

Comparison Clue The meaning of a word can be determined when the word is likened or compared to a more familiar word.

Signals that a comparison is being made include like, also, both,

similarly, likewise, as well as, in comparison.

Comparison Clue

Example:

likewise

Ms. Kelly was known for her caustic remarks; , Ms. Jones speaks harshly as well.

Contrast Clue The meaning of a word can be determined when the word is contrasted to a more familiar word.

Contrast Clue Signals that a contrast is being made include but, however, although, while,

whereas, on the other hand, conversely, on the contrary, in contrast, instead.

Contrast Clue

Example: Bob’s quietness was

in

sharp

contrast

to Ken’s volubility.

Contrast Clue

Example: Sally was a dull companion,

but

Martha was always a vivacious one.

Examples Clue The meaning of a word can be determined when examples of the word or concept are given.

Signals that examples are being given include such as, for example,

like, and other

Examples Clue

Example: Condiments, pepper were once too

such as

cinnamon, sugar, mustard, and expensive for most people.

Examples Clue

Example: rodents.

Rats and mice are among the most common