What does this word mean?
When encountering a new word, it's important to understand its meaning in order to use it correctly in conversation or writing. Here are some steps to help determine the meaning of an unfamiliar word:
Step 1: Look it up in a dictionary
The first step in determining the meaning of a word is to look it up in a dictionary. This can be done in a physical dictionary or online. The dictionary will provide the definition of the word, as well as any synonyms or antonyms. It may also provide examples of how the word is used in sentences.
Step 2: Consider the context
If the dictionary definition is still unclear, consider the context in which the word is being used. Look at the words and phrases surrounding the unfamiliar word to see if they provide any clues as to its meaning. Consider the tone of the passage and the overall topic being discussed.
Step 3: Break down the word
If the context doesn't provide enough information, try breaking down the word into its root, prefix, and suffix. This can help determine the word's meaning based on its parts. For example, the word "unbelievable" is made up of the prefix "un-" meaning "not", the root "believe", and the suffix "-able" meaning "capable of". Therefore, "unbelievable" means "not capable of being believed".
Step 4: Look for related words
If the word is still unclear, try looking for related words. This can be done by searching for synonyms or antonyms of the word, or by looking for other words that share the same root or prefix. This can provide additional context and help determine the word's meaning.
Step 5: Ask for help
If all else fails, don't be afraid to ask for help. Ask a friend, teacher, or colleague if they know the meaning of the word. They may be able to provide additional context or insight into the word's meaning.
Step 6: Practice using the word
Once the meaning of the word has been determined, practice using it in conversation or writing. This will help solidify the word's meaning and make it easier to remember in the future.
Conclusion
Determining the meaning of an unfamiliar word can seem daunting, but by following these steps it can become a manageable task. Remember to look up the word in a dictionary, consider the context, break down the word, look for related words, ask for help, and practice using the word. With these tools, any word can be understood and used correctly.