Practice: Inference and Vocabulary in Context

Determine the meaning of the word 'ominous' in the following sentence: The dark clouds and thunder were ominous signs of an approaching storm.

• joyful

• threatening

• peaceful

• hopeful

What can be inferred from the sentence: The students were whispering and passing notes during the test?

• The students were not taking the test seriously.

• The students were discussing the test questions with each other.

• The students were focused and attentive during the test.

• The students were helping each other to understand the test material.

In the sentence 'The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafted through the house', what do you think the word 'wafted' means?

• to stand still or be stationary

• to sink or be submerged in water

• to float or be carried gently through the air

• to run or move quickly

From the sentence 'She was dressed in a shabby coat', what can you infer about the woman's appearance?

• Trendy

• Shabby

• Elegant

• Colorful

Using context clues, define the word 'ephemeral' in the sentence: The beauty of the cherry blossoms is ephemeral, lasting only a few days.

• permanent

• enduring

• short-lived

• eternal

What is the connotation of the word 'stubborn'?

• Optimistic

• Neutral

• Positive

• Negative

What is the denotation of the word 'home'?

• A type of vehicle

• A type of fruit

• The place where one lives permanently, especially as a member of a family or household

• A type of bird

Explain the connotation of the word 'frugal'.

• Generous or lavish

• Economical or thrifty

• Extravagant or wasteful

• Luxurious or opulent