Context helps in determining the meaning of elements from "summary" of English Vocabulary Elements by Keith Denning,Brett Kessler,William R. Leben,William Ronald Leben
Understanding the meaning of a vocabulary element is not always straightforward. This meaning can be influenced by the context in which the element is used. Context provides crucial information that helps in determining the intended meaning of a word or phrase. It serves as a guide that aids in interpreting the significance of vocabulary elements within a given situation. The context in which a vocabulary element appears can include various factors such as the surrounding words, the overall theme of the text, the cultural background of the speakers, and the specific communicative purpose. All these elements work together to provide clues that assist in unlocking the meaning of vocabulary items. For example, the word "bank" can have different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. In a financial context, "bank" refers to a financial institution where people deposit money or take out loans. However, in a river context, "bank" refers to the land along the side of a river. Without considering the context in which "bank" is used, it would be challenging to determine its precise meaning. Additionally, context helps in disambiguating homonyms – words that are spelled the same but have different meanings. For instance, the word "bat" can mean a flying mammal or a piece of sports equipment used in baseball. By looking at the context in which "bat" is used, one can easily discern which meaning is intended by the speaker or writer.- Understanding the meaning of vocabulary elements is greatly aided by considering the context in which they are used. Context provides valuable information that assists in deciphering the intended significance of words and phrases. By paying attention to the contextual clues present in a given situation, one can gain a deeper understanding of vocabulary elements and their meanings.
