synonyms
A context clue is often available in the form of a synonym: a word that means the same or almost the same as the unknown word. A synonym may appear anywhere in a passage to provide the same meaning as the unknown word.
Now consider the following examples
1. Speaking in front of a group disconcerts Alan. Even answering a question in class embarrasses him. Hint: How does Alan react when he has to speak in public?
2. Because my friends had advised me to scrutinize the lease, I took time to examine all the fine print.
3. The presidential candidate vowed to discuss pragmatic solutions. He said the American people want practical answers, not empty theory.
4. I asked the instructor to explain a confusing passage in the textbook. She said, “I wish I could, but it’s obscure to me, too.”
5. Teachers may overlook it when a student is two minutes late. But they are not going to condone someone’s walking into class a half hour late.
6. When people are broke, they find that many things which seem indispensable are not so necessary after all.
7. Managers should beware of having adversaries work together; opponents often do not cooperate well.
8. In the same way that the arrival of mechanical equipment meant fewer farm jobs, the advent of the computer has led to fewer manufacturing jobs.
9. Many corporations like to be seen as benevolent and will actively seek publicity for their charitable donations.
10. Throughout history, the prevalent authority pattern in families has been patriarchy, in which males are in control. In only a few societies has matriarchy been the customary authority pattern.