ISEE Middle Level Verbal Reasoning

ISEE Middle Level Verbal Reasoning focuses on developing critical reading and verbal skills necessary for success in the ISEE exam.

SynonymsSentence CompletionUsing Context Clues
AnalogiesWord Roots, Prefixes, and SuffixesUnderstanding Tone and Purpose
Building a Strong VocabularyComprehension in Everyday LifeApplying Synonyms and Context in Communication
Process of EliminationManaging Your Time
SynonymsSentence CompletionUsing Context CluesAnalogiesWord Roots, Prefixes...Understanding Tone a...Building a Strong Vo...Comprehension in Eve...Applying Synonyms an...Process of Eliminati...Managing Your Time
Basic Concepts

Using Context Clues

Figuring Out Meanings with Context Clues

Sometimes you’ll see a word you don’t know. Instead of giving up, use context clues—hints from other words or sentences—to figure it out!

Types of Context Clues

  • Definition clues: The word is defined in the sentence.
  • Example clues: Examples help you guess the meaning.
  • Contrast clues: Opposites help you zero in on the meaning.
  • Restatement clues: The idea is repeated in a simpler way.

Smart Strategies

  • Look for punctuation like commas, dashes, or parentheses—they often signal explanations.
  • Reread the sentence and the sentences around it.
  • Plug in possible meanings and see what makes sense.

Practice in Real Life

Try to guess the meaning of tricky words when you read books, watch movies, or listen to people talking.

Examples

  • The arid desert, which is very dry and lacks water, can be dangerous for travelers.

  • Unlike the docile kitten, the dog was rambunctious and full of energy.

In a Nutshell

Context clues are hints in a sentence that help you figure out what unfamiliar words mean.

Next
Analogies