Vocabulary
in Context
Learn how to figure out what a word means by using the clues around it in a passage.
What Does "In Context" Mean?
Many words have more than one meaning. The word bright can mean full of light OR very smart. So how do you know which one is being used?
One Word, Many Meanings
Why This Matters
The Golden Rule
Four Kinds of Clues
Common Meaning vs. Passage Meaning
A word's most common meaning is not always the right answer. You must use the meaning that fits this sentence.
A Simple Plan to Follow
Worked Example One
Clues: "cave" and "barely see" tell us there is very little light.
Worked Example Two
Clue: The word "Unlike" tells us bold is the opposite of "shy".
Worked Example Three
Clues: "hiking all day" and "ate a huge dinner" point to one feeling.
Trick: Plug It Back In
Watch Out for These Mistakes
Clue Types at a Glance
| Clue Type | Signal Words |
|---|---|
| Definition | "is", "means", commas |
| Example | "like", "such as", "for example" |
| Opposite | "but", "unlike", "however" |
| Feeling | happy, sad, scared words |
Quick Recap
Question 1 of 5
The old wooden bridge was very sturdy. Even when a heavy truck drove across it, the bridge did not shake or move at all.
In this passage, the word sturdy most likely means:
Question 2 of 5
Unlike her cheerful brother, Lena felt glum all morning and did not want to play with anyone.
As used here, glum most nearly means:
Question 3 of 5
Carlos collected many marine animals for his project, such as starfish, crabs, and small ocean fish.
The word marine most likely means:
Question 4 of 5
The baker had to knead the dough, pressing and folding it over and over until it was smooth and soft.
In this passage, knead means:
Question 5 of 5
The runner was so weary after the marathon that she fell asleep the moment she sat down.
As used in the passage, weary most nearly means: