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 is an
instrument used with a telescope
or microscope for measuring
small distances.
Direct Definition Clue
Example: Crustacean means a crusted
animal which has a stiff outer
covering.
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: Ms. Kelly was known
for her caustic remarks;
likewise, 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, such as
cinnamon, sugar, mustard, and
pepper were once too
expensive for most people.
Examples Clue
Example: Rats and mice are
among the most common
rodents.