We can determine the meaning of unfamiliar or unknown words
by using different types of context clues!
CONTEXT CLUES:
Flocabulary
There are many types of context clues!
Today we will look at 5 types…
2. Antonyms
3. Examples
4. Definitions
5. Inferences
(words that mean the same thing) Clue: If you see a comma and the word or that word is a synonym of the unknown word
Example! What do you think is the meaning of the underlined word?
The actress perused, or looked through the book, until she found the fact she needed.
2. Antonyms
(words that mean the opposite)
Example! What do you think is the meaning of the underlined word?
Stan was jubilant when he got the news, before he found out, he was sad with the blues.
Jubilant = Very happy
2. Antonyms
(words that mean the opposite)
Clue: Look for words like although, but, not
Example! What do you think is the meaning of the underlined word?
My dog is so overweight that he is obese. He has not been thin since he was a puppy. (antonym of thin)
fat
3. Examples
(when something in the text explains the meaning of the word by giving you an example)
Clue: If there is a comma after the unknown word they may be examples. Also look for word like such including, consists of, like, for example
Example!
The mansion was dilapidated, the windows were broken, and the paint was faded. I’m pretty sure rats had invaded the inside.
What does dilapidated mean?
3. Examples
(when something in the text explains the meaning of the word by giving you an example)
Example! What do you think is the meaning of the underlined word?
The mansion was dilapidated, the windows were broken, and the paint was faded.
run down - Looks old and broken.
4. Definition
(when something in the text gives you the meaning) CLUE: look for a comma after the unknown word
Example! What do you think is the meaning of the underlined word?
The paper disintegrated, or broke apart, when it laid in the water too long.
A:broke apart
4. Inference
(when something in the text gives you the meaning)
Example! What do you think is the meaning of the underlined word?
A:friendly
Mr. Jones is a very affable person to deal with. He always has a smile on his face and always greets you with a big hello!