Ch 2: Meaning of Words & Phrases

1. How to Use Context to Determine the Meaning of Words

There are a number of techniques used to determine the meaning of words by examining them in the context of a sentence. Learn how to look for definitions and examples within the sentence, pay attention to synonyms and antonyms, and substitute unknown words.

2. Constructing Meaning with Context Clues, Prior Knowledge & Word Structure

There are reading strategies for constructing meaning in literature. Learn to use prior knowledge to understand content, employ context clues to determine word definitions, and explain word structure and how it helps to comprehend unfamiliar words.

3. What Are Connotation and Denotation? - Definitions & Examples

Connotation is a word's figurative meaning, while denotation is a word's literal meaning. Explore the definitions of connotation and denotation, as well as examples of each from literature.

4. What is a Synonym? - Definition & Examples

Synonyms are defined as two different words that have either the same or similar meaning. Understand the importance of synonyms in writing, explore common examples, and learn how to find synonyms through a thesaurus.

5. What are Antonyms? - Definition & Examples

Antonyms are words that express the opposite meaning of a certain word. Learn how to use antonyms in writing, as well as the importance of antonyms and how they help in improving vocabulary.

6. Understanding Words By Their Relationships

Words often contain multiple potential meanings that can be identified by their context and relationship to other words in a phrase. Learn the use of connotation, denotation, and synonyms, and how different types of analogies can illuminate the true meaning behind a given word.

7. What is a Metaphor? - Examples, Definition & Types

Metaphors, whether extended or mixed are commonly used to communicate ideas and emotions. Although similar, they play a very different role in language than similes. Take a moment to master the differences between these literary tools and learn when and how to apply each.

8. Similes in Literature: Definition and Examples

A simile is a comparison of two things that are not alike. Learn the definition of simile, and explore examples of similes to understand how similes are used in literature. Review epic similes, compare similes to metaphors, and recognize the limitations of similes.