Contextual Clues

Deriving the Meaning of Words From the context

• Wonderful strategy to improve your reading skills
• Types of contextual clues are:
  - Definition
  - Example
  - Synonym
  - Contrast
  - Inference
  
  Contextual Clue 1: Definition
  Clue words & phrases: such as, is, means, refers to, that is
  
  Eg. Sarah studied mineralogy, that is, the scientific study of minerals, for
  the past 4 years.
  
  
  Contextual Clue 2: Example
  Clue words &phrases: such as, including, for example, for instance, as an example
  
  Eg. War, murder and rape are a few of the many atrocities that happen
  around us.
  
  Contextual Clue 3: Synonym
  Clue words & phrases: and , or , similarly, also called, also known
  
  Eg. The constant heavy downpour, slowly erode or wash away the hills
  beside the highways, causing landslides.
  
  Contextual Clue 4: Contrast
  Clue words & phrases: as not, but, instead of, however, despite, unlike, rather
  
  Eg. Fiona felt unenthusiastic, instead of being excited about the trip.
  
  Contextual Clue 5: Inference
  Use existing background knowledge to guess meaning of words.
  
  Eg. The children were elated, jumping up and down and clapping their hands, the moment they saw a clown arriving at their birthday party.