Context Clues

The sudden storm was a surprise. We were not ready for it. What does sudden mean?

• rainy

• without warning

• very big

• a party

I studied so much, I was certain I would do well on the test. What does certain mean?

• to think

• sure

• maybe

• to see

Abby was sad and lonely when her best friend moved away. What does lonely mean?

• alone

• afraid

• away from

• to make new friends

We have rather lofty expectations for you, son. You will attend college. You will become rich and famous. You will be elected president of the United States before you turn forty.

Which word is a synonym of “lofty”?

• high

• shakey

• small

• lowly

Brea and Elizabeth are having a dispute over which radio station to play at work. It would be so much simpler if they both liked the same kind of music.

A dispute is a __________.

• musical instrument

• choice of music

• discovery

• disagreement

Your plan looks good. I hope it will really work. It’s time to implement it and see if it’s as brilliant as you claim.

An implement means ______________.

• instrument

• take apart

• change

• carry out

It’s a wonder to me how anyone can still be undecided about this election. These two candidates are certainly distinct. Each would lead our nation in opposite directions.

What does “distinct” mean?

• needing a bath

• dishonest

• clearly different

• about the same age

I want you to weigh his words carefully. He seems sincere and presents his arguments well. There is, however, something that doesn’t quite ring true about the candidate.

What does “weigh” mean in the context of the selection?

• to measure the mass

• to put pressure on a scale

• to think about

• to be important

Many companies are downsizing, reducing the number of employees they have, in order to save money.

What type of context clue is used to help determine the meaning of the underlined word?

• synonym

• definition

• inference

• example

Her quiet, timid ways made it hard for her to make friends.

What type of context clue is used to help determine the meaning of the underlined word.

• example

• antonym

• definition

• synonym