IXL | Use context to identify the meaning of a word

What does construct mean? Use nearby words to help you figure out the meaning.

It took the builders five years to construct that big bridge.

break

make

ref_doc_title.

Learn with an example

question

What does pruned mean? Use nearby words to help you figure out the meaning.

The tree grew too big, so we pruned some of its branches.

cut off

pointed at

key idea

If you don't know the meaning of a word, look for context clues. Context clues are nearby words that help you figure out the meaning of a new word.

Here are some examples:

Megan was glum when her best friend moved away.

You can guess that glum means "sad."

He said sorry, but I was still irate.

You can guess that irate means "angry."

Mr. Lee keeps his home tidy and clean.

You can guess that tidy means "neat."

Be cautious! Move slowly and watch your step.

You can guess that cautious means "careful."

solution

What does pruned mean? Look at the underlined context clue.

The tree grew too big, so we pruned some of its branches.

When a tree gets too big, you might cut off some branches.

The context clue helps you guess that pruned means cut off.

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PP.1Use context to identify the meaning of a word

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