Interpret Vocabulary
In Context
Use the clues around a word to figure out its meaning, even when you have never seen the word before.
What Is Context?
Context is the set of words and ideas that surround a word. When you don't know a word's meaning, the rest of the sentence (and the sentences nearby) often gives you enough clues to figure it out.
Why It Matters
Four Kinds of Context Clues
The Core Rule
The Substitution Trick
Cover the hard word and read the sentence with a blank. Then test each answer choice by plugging it back in. The choice that keeps the sentence's meaning is correct.
Dictionary Meaning vs. Context Meaning
Some words have several definitions. HSPT asks for the meaning as used in the passage not just any correct definition. Always pick the meaning that fits the sentence.
A Step-by-Step Approach
Worked Example 1
Clue type: Example / definition. The cracks and rust describe the word. A bridge with cracks and rust is old and worn out.
Worked Example 2
Clue type: Contrast. The word "but" signals an opposite. Maria was thrilled and eager, so the others felt the reverse.
Worked Example 3
Clue type: Definition by restatement. The colon introduces an explanation: "no one gave up." The tone is positive and admiring.
Common Mistakes
Clue Types at a Glance
| Signal Words | What It Tells You | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | is, means, that is | The exact meaning |
| Example | such as, like, for instance | What the word includes |
| Contrast | but, however, unlike | The opposite meaning |
| Tone | (feeling of passage) | Positive or negative |
Quick Recap
Question 1 of 5
"The desert traveler grew parched as the hours wore on. With no water left in his canteen and the sun beating down, his lips cracked and his throat ached for a single drink."
As used in the passage, parched most nearly means:
Question 2 of 5
"Unlike his cheerful sister, who chatted with everyone, Daniel was reticent at the party and barely said a word all evening."
As used in the passage, reticent most nearly means:
Question 3 of 5
"The new policy was beneficial to the whole town: roads were repaired, schools got funding, and the parks were finally cleaned up."
As used in the passage, beneficial most nearly means:
Question 4 of 5
"After the long argument, the two friends reached a truce; they agreed to stop fighting and shook hands in peace."
As used in the passage, truce most nearly means:
Question 5 of 5
"The chef gave the soup a sharp taste by adding extra lemon and pepper, making it tangy and bold."
As used in the passage, sharp most nearly means: