What does this word mean?
As language learners, we often come across words that we don't know the meaning of. In this article, we will explore three ways to understand the meaning of a word in English.
1. Look it up in a dictionary
The most obvious way to find the meaning of a word is to look it up in a dictionary. Nowadays, we can easily access online dictionaries such as Merriam-Webster or Oxford English Dictionary. Simply type in the word you want to know the meaning of and you will find a definition, examples of how the word is used, and sometimes even its origin.
2. Use context clues
Another way to understand the meaning of a word is to use context clues. This means looking at the words and sentences surrounding the unknown word to infer its meaning. For example, if you come across the sentence "The doctor prescribed medication to alleviate the patient's symptoms," you can infer that "alleviate" means to make something less severe or intense.
3. Ask a native speaker or teacher
If you are still unsure about the meaning of a word, you can always ask a native speaker or your teacher. They can provide you with a more nuanced explanation and even give you examples of how the word is used in everyday conversation. Don't be afraid to ask for help, as it is a crucial part of language learning.
Conclusion
Learning new words is an essential part of language learning. By using these three methods - looking up in a dictionary, using context clues, and asking for help - you can expand your vocabulary and improve your overall understanding of the English language.