Read the sentence:
“Sarai discovered that some of the materials she tested were malleable enough to serve as springs for her robot.” What type of context clue can you use to determine the meaning of “malleable”?
A. a synonym
B. an antonym
C. a definition
D. an inference
Final Answer:
In the sentence, the type of context clue that helps determine the meaning of ‘malleable’ is a definition clue, as it relates to the materials’ ability to function as springs. This indicates that the materials are flexible or can be shaped easily. Therefore, ‘malleable’ refers to the property of being pliable or adaptable for a specific use.
Explanation:
To determine the meaning of the word ‘malleable’ in the sentence, we can look for context clues that provide us hints about its definition. In the sentence provided, ‘Sarai discovered that some of the materials she tested were malleable enough to serve as springs for her robot,’ we can analyze the phrase that follows ‘malleable.’ The context indicates that these materials can serve as springs, which suggests that they are flexible or can change shape under pressure. Therefore, the type of context clue that helps us understand ‘malleable’ is a definition clue, as it defines the word through its connection to being used as springs.
In summary, context clues are essential in figuring out unfamiliar words. Using the words around ‘malleable,’ we can infer that it means something that can be shaped or bent, aligning with the concept of flexibility.
Examples & Evidence:
For instance, when a person encounters the word ‘fragile’ in a sentence that describes something that can break easily, such as ‘The fragile vase shattered at the slightest touch,’ the context provides a clear clue about its meaning, which is ‘easily breakable.’
Understanding context clues is a fundamental reading skill that supports comprehension, allowing readers to infer meanings from the surrounding text, enhancing vocabulary acquisition.