How To Find The Meaning Of Words As You Read
Reading can be an incredibly enjoyable and fulfilling activity, especially when you are fully engaged with the text. However, nothing can derail your reading experience more than coming across words or phrases that make no sense to you. You may feel daunted or frustrated, but don't give up just yet. There are plenty of ways to find the meaning of words, even as you read. This article will share some tips and strategies that you can use to unravel the mysteries of unfamiliar words.
1. Look it up in a dictionary.
One of the most straightforward ways to find the meaning of a word is to consult a dictionary. There are a variety of print and online dictionaries available, including Merriam-Webster, Oxford English Dictionary, and Cambridge Dictionary. If you're reading a physical book, you'll need to keep a dictionary handy, either as a separate volume or as an app on your phone. You can also use your phone or computer to look up words online if you're reading an e-book. Most e-book platforms have built-in dictionary tools that let you tap on a word and see its definition.
2. Context clues.
If you don't want to interrupt your reading flow to look up words, you can try to use context clues to figure out what they mean. Context refers to the information around a word that helps you understand it. This could include things like the sentence or paragraph it's in, the tone of the writing, or any clues in the surrounding text. Here are some things to look for:
- Synonyms: For example, if you come across the word 'harmonic,' and you aren't sure what it means, but the author goes on to use the word 'melodic' later on in the same sentence or paragraph, you can infer that they might be talking about something related to music.
- Antonyms: If you see a word that you don't understand, but you can tell from the context that it's the opposite of something else the author mentioned, you may be able to deduce its meaning.
- Examples: The author may give an example or describe what something does, which can help you infer the meaning of an unfamiliar word. For instance, if a character is described as being 'gregarious,' but you don't know what that means, you might observe that the character is outgoing, sociable, and enjoys being around others.
- Prefixes and suffixes: If you're familiar with common prefixes or suffixes, you can use them to help infer the meaning of new words. For example, if you come across the word 'unconventional,' you can break it down into 'un' meaning 'not' and 'conventional' meaning 'traditional' or 'ordinary.'
3. Ask someone.
If you're reading alongside someone else, such as a parent, teacher, or friend, you can always ask them for help. Many people love reading and may be delighted to have a conversation about language and vocabulary. Alternatively, you could ask a librarian or a tutor for assistance. Don't be afraid to ask for help if you're stuck on a word or phrase.
4. Take notes.
If you're reading a book for a class or for your personal enrichment, you may want to take notes as you go along. This can help you remember what you've read and identify areas where you need to do more research. If you come across a word that you don't understand, write it down, along with the context in which it was used. Later, when you have the chance, you can look up the word and make note of its definition. This can not only help you understand the text better, but it can also expand your vocabulary for future reading.
5. Use apps and extensions.
In today's digital age, there's an app for almost everything, including vocabulary building. Here are a few apps that you can use to learn new words and expand your vocabulary:
- Quizlet: This app offers flashcards, games, and quizzes designed to help you memorize new words and concepts.
- Vocabulary.com: This app uses artificial intelligence to adapt to your level and recommend words for you to learn.
- Magoosh Vocabulary Builder: This app offers a fun and interactive way to learn new words, with games and quizzes that help you reinforce your knowledge.
If you're reading on your computer, you can also install browser extensions that allow you to look up words with a simple click. Some popular options include Google Dictionary, Merriam-Webster Dictionary, and Readlang Web Reader.
6. Read widely and deeply.
Finally, the best way to improve your vocabulary and comprehension is simply to read widely and deeply. The more you read, the more you're exposed to new words and ideas, and the more your brain can make connections between them. Try reading books from different genres, authors from different backgrounds, and styles of writing with which you may be unfamiliar. The more you challenge yourself, the more you'll grow as a reader and a language user.
In conclusion, reading can be a rewarding and enriching experience, but it can also be intimidating if you come across unfamiliar words and phrases. However, by using the strategies outlined in this article, you can easily find the meaning of words, whether it's through a dictionary, context clues, or technology. Remember that learning new words is a lifelong pursuit, and the more you read and explore, the more you'll grow as a language user and a thinker.