Context Clues Practice

Context Clues Practice

Read each sentence carefully. Use the context clues to determine the meaning of the underlined word. Write your definition and explain what clues helped you.

1. The ancient manuscript was so fragile that it crumbled at the slightest touch. What does 'fragile' mean?

2. Her jovial personality made her a favorite among her friends; she was always cheerful and full of laughter. What does 'jovial' mean?

3. The arid desert landscape stretched for miles, with very little water or vegetation in sight. What does 'arid' mean?

Use the context to fill in the blank with a word that makes sense.

1. The detective tried to   the truth from the suspect, but he remained silent. (Hint: He wanted to get the truth out.)

2. After working all day, she was utterly  , needing a long rest to recover her energy. (Hint: She was extremely tired.)

3. The artist was known for her   paintings, which were bright, colorful, and full of life. (Hint: Her paintings were dull's opposite.)

Read the sentence and choose the best meaning for the underlined word based on the context.

1. The old house had a dilapidated porch, with broken steps and peeling paint.

2. The scientist hypothesized, or made an educated guess, about the outcome of the experiment.

Read the passage below and answer the questions that follow.

The old woman lived a solitary life in her small cottage, nestled deep within the woods. She rarely saw visitors, preferring the quiet companionship of her books and the occasional deer that wandered into her garden. Her reclusive nature meant she seldom ventured into town, relying instead on the few provisions she kept stocked.

1. What does 'solitary' mean in this context? What clues helped you?

2. What does 'reclusive' mean? How is it related to 'solitary'?