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Context Clues Vocabulary

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Context Clues Vocabulary

Use clues in a sentence or passage to infer the meaning of unfamiliar words. Read the surrounding details carefully.

Read for clues

Read each passage. Use the details around the bold word to work out its meaning.

1.At the edge of the reserve, a kererū clumsily flapped onto a branch. Its large body and iridescent green-and-white feathers made it easy to spot among the smaller birds. What kind of creature is a kererū?

2.After carrying boxes up three flights of stairs, Maia was parched. She poured herself a large glass of water and drank it quickly. What does parched mean?

3.A meagre lunch of one cracker and a thin slice of cheese did little to satisfy Hemi, who had skipped breakfast. What does meagre mean in this passage?

4.The path was slippery after the frost. Tane took slow, careful steps so that he would not slide over. What does slippery mean?

Recognise the clue

Context clues can give a definition, examples, a synonym, or an antonym.

5.Match each type of context clue to the sentence that demonstrates it.

Definition clue
Example clue
Synonym clue
Antonym clue

Nocturnal animals, such as bats and kiwi, are active at night.
Unlike the narrow entrance, the hall beyond it was spacious.
A peninsula is a piece of land almost surrounded by water.
The room was immaculate—spotless from floor to ceiling.

6.Read the sentence and select the best meaning of whakaaro: “The group shared their whakaaro about how to protect the stream. After listening to everyone, they chose one plan and began putting it into action.”

Plans for a meal
Thoughts or ideas
Tools for cleaning
Rules for a game

Use vocabulary in context

Try the writing activities. Include enough detail to help a reader understand any unfamiliar words you use.

7.Choose three words from this worksheet. For each one, write a sentence that gives a clue to its meaning. Name the word, then write your sentence.

8.Write a short paragraph about an outing, activity, or event. Use at least two words that may be unfamiliar to your reader, and add clues that make their meanings understandable.