context clues
Pronunciation
Noun
B1 Intermediate
Quick answer
Hints found in the surrounding words or sentences that help a reader guess the meaning of an unfamiliar word.
Usage notes
A key reading strategy for tackling unfamiliar vocabulary in an exam, when a dictionary usually isn't available.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "She used _____ to work out what 'famished' meant without checking a dictionary."
Answer: context clues
In your own words, what does "context clues" mean?
Hints found in the surrounding words or sentences that help a reader guess the meaning of an unfamiliar word.
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