Using Context Clues

          Ever seen a missing word within a sentence? Well the use of context clues will help you decipher what that missing word is. There are five types of context clues and they are : definition, synonyms, example, contrast and inference. Definition clues are given or brought up through the use of the word in the sentence. Punctuation also helps to separate the meaning of the word from the sentence with the use of commas, parenthesis, and dashes. Synonym clues are words that come close to the meaning of the words definition. Example clues help to explain or comprehend a word as it is being used in the sentence. Contrast clues pertain to a word or perhaps a phrase that is the opposite meaning. Inference clues force you to use your reasoning inorder to figure out the meaning of a word. Overall context clues provide somewhat of a definition but not a complete one and sometimes they are not always given to you. Yet with context clues you are able to figure out unknown words, and phrases within your everyday reading.