Context Clues — Answer Key
Part A: Multiple Choice
Circle the best answer for each question.
1. In "The meticulous student checked every answer twice," meticulous most likely means:
A) Careless
B) Very careful and thorough
C) Lazy
D) Quick
"Checked every answer twice" is a definition/example clue showing meticulous means careful and thorough.
2. In "The once-bustling market was now desolate after the storm," desolate means:
A) Crowded
B) Noisy
C) Empty and deserted
D) Colorful
"Once-bustling" provides an antonym clue — desolate is the opposite of busy and crowded.
3. Which clue type is used in "The canine, or dog, sat by the door"?
A) Example clue
B) Antonym clue
C) Definition clue
D) Inference clue
The phrase "or dog" directly restates the meaning of canine, making this a definition clue.
4. "She was elated, unlike her gloomy brother." What does elated mean?
A) Sad
B) Angry
C) Very happy
D) Tired
"Unlike her gloomy brother" is an antonym clue — elated is the opposite of gloomy/sad.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the correct answer on each line.
1. The word "or" in a sentence often introduces a synonym or definition.
"Or" is a signal word that introduces a synonym or restatement of the preceding word.
2. When no direct clue is given, readers must infer the meaning from details.
Inference clues require readers to use logic and background knowledge to determine meaning.
3. In "The frigid wind made us shiver," frigid means extremely cold .
"Made us shiver" is an example/inference clue that frigid means extremely cold.
4. A reader who uses context clues builds a stronger vocabulary .
Consistently using context clues helps readers learn new words and expand their vocabulary.
5. In "The vivacious girl was full of energy," vivacious means lively and energetic .
"Full of energy" is a definition clue that vivacious means lively and energetic.