Context Clues - Different Types

Context Clues

What to do when you come to an unknown word

No matter our age, when we read we
will encounter words that we are not
familiar with. When this happens, we
need to look outside of the word and
use context clues.

Today, I’m going show you how to apply
context clues to solve unknown words.
You will learn 6 different types of
context clues.

In today’s example we will use one
word, symbiosis, to explore the
different context clues that authors
use.

Definition

Symbiosis is the term used to describe the relationship
where two organisms live closely together and interact in a
way that usually benefits one or both.

Appositive

The cleaner fish and its host show symbiosis, a situation
where both animals gain advantages.

synonym

This close symbiosis, or partnership, helps them survive in
tough conditions.

Antonym

Unlike competition, where organisms fight for resources,
symbiosis involves cooperation.

Example

The clownfish and the sea anemone show symbiosis by
protecting and aiding each other.

General/Inference

When you see how some birds clean the teeth of crocodiles
without getting eaten, it's clear they have a symbiosis.