Vocabulary in Context
Determining the meaning of words as used in a passage
Explanation
What These Questions Ask
These questions ask for the meaning of a specific word as it is used in the passage. The word may have multiple meanings, but only one fits the context.
"As used in paragraph 2, the word charged most nearly means…"
Strategy
- Go back to the passage and re-read the sentence containing the word.
- Cover the word and predict what word would fit.
- Find the answer choice that matches your prediction.
- Substitute your choice back into the sentence and confirm it makes sense.
Multiple-Meaning Words
Be aware of words with more than one meaning:
| Word | Common Meaning | Other Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| bank | financial institution | edge of a river |
| light | not heavy | illumination; not serious |
| fair | just/equal | carnival; light-coloured |
| charge | cost/fee | rush at; electric charge |
Always use context — the surrounding sentences — to pin down the meaning.
Practice Questions
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What does Vocabulary in Context cover in the ISEE Lower Level exam?
Determining the meaning of words as used in a passage.
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Topics in Reading Comprehension