Use context clues
Before opening a dictionary, read the whole sentence and the one beside it. A nearby example, explanation, or contrast may make the unfamiliar word clear enough to continue.
Check your guess against the sentence. If the clues are not clear enough, use a dictionary. You do not need to guess every word.
The suitcase was cumbersome: it was so large and awkward that Lina needed both hands to carry it through the narrow doorway.
A worked example
What does 'cumbersome' mean here?
Difficult to carry or handle because of its size or shape.
The words after the colon explain 'cumbersome': the suitcase is large and awkward to carry.
The suitcase was cumbersome: it was so large and awkward that Lina needed both hands to carry it through the narrow doorway.
Your turn
Read this short text, then answer the question below.
Instead of the usual lengthy report, Mina sent a concise note: three sentences with the decision and the next step.
Try it
What does 'concise' most nearly mean here?
- Unclear because it leaves out the decision.
- Brief while giving the needed information.
Show the answer
Brief while giving the needed information.
The note replaces a long report but still gives the decision and next step.
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Practice Reading comprehension