Context clues are hints in the sentence or paragraph that help you understand a new word. There are several kinds.
A definition clue explains the word directly. An example clue gives examples. A contrast clue shows the opposite: “Unlike his noisy brother, Ravi was reserved.” Reserved must mean quiet.
Use the clues to make a guess, then test your guess by putting it in place of the word.
Worked example
Read: “The ancient castle had stood on the hill for nine hundred years.” What does ancient mean?
- Find the clue: nine hundred years.
- Something that has stood that long is very old.
Answer:very old
Key words
- context clue
- a hint near an unknown word
- contrast
- showing difference
- definition
- an explanation of meaning
Practise this
New questions every time.
Common Core-referenced: L.3.4a