Context clues are hints found within a sentence, paragraph, or passage that a reader can use to understand the meanings of new or unfamiliar words. They are integral to how we make sense of things, especially when reading. Context clues can be visual or grammatical elements that suggest meaning. There are at least four kinds of context clues that are quite common:
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Synonym: A synonym, or word with the same meaning, is used in the sentence.
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Antonym: An antonym, or word with the opposite meaning, is used in the sentence.
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Definition: A definition or description of the word is provided in the sentence or nearby sentences.
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Example: An example of the word is provided in the sentence or nearby sentences.
Because most of our vocabulary is gained through reading, it is important to be able to recognize and take advantage of context clues. By using context clues, readers can better understand the meaning of new or unfamiliar words and improve their reading comprehension.
