CONTEXT CLUES
Context Clues are hints that an author gives to help
define a difficult or unusual word within a series of
sentences or paragraph. The clue may appear within the
same sentence as the word to which it refers or it may
follow in the next sentence.
TYPES OF CONTEXT CLUES
The following are types of context clues that authors
use to determine the meanings of unfamiliar words.
Through these, you will come to understand that authors
give hints in all kinds of ways to help readers figure out
what the words mean. This helps readers infer a word’s
meaning and appreciate the entire passage where the
word resides
TYPES OF CONTEXT CLUES
1. Inference
Uses reasoning and prior knowledge
Your experiences provide common sense clues to the meaning of the
word
This context clue is often a little harder to spot
Examples:
1.
Patriotism is shown by loving and cherishing our fellow Filipinos.
2.
All animals share the same vital needs like food, water and shelter.
TYPES OF CONTEXT CLUES
2. Definition
Gives
the meaning of the word using punctuation (commas,
parentheses, dashes)
Uses “BE” verbs to show that two ideas are the same
Examples:
1. Pakikisama is a Filipino trait which means getting along with
others.
2. Dialect - a form of speech from a specific region.
TYPES OF CONTEXT CLUES
3. Example
 Provides examples to help explain the unfamiliar concept/term
Uses punctuation clues (commas or hyphens)
 Attaches signal words (such as, for example, for instance, to
illustrate, specifically)
Examples:
1. Using po and opo is an example of paying homage to elders.
2. Legumes, such as peas and beans, produce pods.
TYPES OF CONTEXT CLUES
4. Antonym
 Uses antonym, a word of opposite meaning
 Uses contrast clue words (but, however, unlike, in contrast to,
on the other hand)
Examples:
1. Sinulog, unlike other festivals, is a religious one.
2. The gentleman was portly, but his wife was thin.
TYPES OF CONTEXT CLUES
5. Synonym
 Chooses a more familiar word or words with the same meaning
to make the difficult word understandable
Examples:
1. Ati or Aetas settled in Panay Island many years ago
2. Ballet students appear so lithe; they are so acrobatic and
flexible.