Context clues (using inferencing to guess meaning)

No matter where you go, the Internet is following you. Almost every portable device is being made with an Internet connection. Most new TVs and many other appliances come with Internet connections as well. The Internet is truly ubiquitous.

If something is ubiquitous, __________.

• a. it is fuzzy and will bite you

• b. it is everywhere

• c. it costs too much money

• d. it causes rashes

Wherever he goes, the esteemed Dr. Sanchez is applauded for his life saving research.

What does “esteemed” mean?

• a. held over boiling water

• b. very old

• c. unable to chew gum

• d. greatly admired

If you don't curtail your spending, you'll be broke in no time at all!

Which word is a synonym of "curtail"?

• a. reduce

• b. follow

• c. behind

• d. buy

In the early 1600s, a dangerous trip across the Atlantic Ocean was a daunting idea. The Europeans, who would someday be known as the Pilgrims, must have been a very determined and brave group of settlers.

A daunting task is one that would _______ someone.

• a. tickle

• b. amuse

• c. lose or misplace

• d. frighten or intimidate

Our new alarm system will wake up the entire neighborhood if an intruder gets in the house. An intruder is someone who intrudes.

To intrude is to __________.

• A. paint or repair old buildings

• B. wear ones shoes on the wrong feet

• C. go where one is not wanted or doesn't belong

• D. be very noisy

Put this medicine on your arm and rub it into your skin until it's invisible. It will inhibit the infection's attempt to spread.

What does “inhibit” mean?

• a. live in a certain place

• b. block or slow down

• c. itch or burn

• d. help to do something important

Friendship is a priceless thing. If Chris put a price, or conditions, on her friendship, it’s no longer priceless. In fact, it’s not real friendship at all!

If something is priceless, __________

• a. it has a missing tag

• b. it has no value

• c. it has great value

• d. it is made out of rice