Using Context Clues to Determine Word Meanings

Which definition matches the word used in the sentence below?

re•tire 

1. v. To go to bed

2.  v. To stop working because one has reached a certain age

I am so exhausted from running the marathon that I am going to retire early tonight.

• Definition 1

• Definition 2

Which definition matches the word used in the sentence below?

de•vel•op

1. v. To go through a process of growth

2. v. To bring or come into being

3. v.  To apply chemicals to a photographic film to bring out the picture.

My teacher wants to develop an app that will grade papers.

• Definition 1

• Definition 2

• Definition 3

Which definition matches the word used in the sentence below?

lack

1. v. To be without

2. n. A shortage

She definitely won’t get your jokes because she lacks a sense of humor.

• Definition 1

• Definition 2

Which definition matches the word used in the sentence below?

de•cay

1. v. To rot

2. n. A breaking down or rotting

If you brush and floss your teeth every day, you can prevent tooth decay.

• Definition 1

• Definition 2

Which definition matches the word used in the sentence below?

af•fect

1. v. To bring about a change in

2. v. To pretend to be or to have

The detective affected an interest in buying a diamond ring in order to speak with the jeweler.

• Definition 1

• Definition 2

Which definition matches the word used in the sentence below?

ex•ceed 

1. v. To be more than

2. v. To go beyond what is allowed

We received a ticket for exceeding the speed limit by 20 miles per hour.

• Definition 1

• Definition 2

Use context clues to determine the meaning of the bolded word in the paragraph below.

Mina agreed to go on the excursion, but only because she was getting stir crazy sitting in her hotel room all day.  Normally, little trips to see the sights did not interest her.  But her teammates convinced her to make the best of her trip and explore the beauty of Mexico.

• a long, difficult journey

• a surprise visit

• a short trip for pleasure or enjoyment

• a relaxing day doing nothing

Use context clues to determine the meaning of the bolded word in the paragraph below.

I believed every word of Uncle Herm’s story until I saw him chuckle with amusement at the expression on my face.  It was then that I realized that he never really owned a pet monkey, and he simply made the story up to see my reaction.

• something that causes laughter or provides entertainment

• a made up story

• a large outdoor park with rides

• something that causes boredom

Use context clues to determine the meaning of the bolded word in the paragraph below.

Thousands of young men and women were eager to join the corps.  Married couples and older people were also accepted.  Those who were finally selected were well qualified for the work they would be doing.  I was proud to belong to the Peace Corps.

• a secret society

• a group of people engaged in a particular activity

• a military group

• a dead body

Use context clues to determine the meaning of the bolded word in the paragraph below.

He had been chosen to portray Abraham Lincoln because of his acting ability and his strong voice.  He was very tall and had dark hair, which also made him the perfect representation of the president.  His believable performance made me feel like I was transported back in time.

• a painting of someone

• to falsely represent someone or something

• to represent or play the part of someone or something

• to become president