Guessing Meaning from Context

What are we learning today?

You will learn how to understand a new word or phrase by using the words around it.

Explanation

• Do not stop at a new word.
• Step 1: read the whole sentence. Then read the next sentence.
• Guess the meaning. Then check if it fits.
• "I'm afraid you can't" is a polite way to say no. The speaker is not scared.
• "Why not?" asks for a reason.

Examples

1. No, sorry. I'm afraid you can't. Because your uncle and aunt are here.
2. Her teacher is an expert. He can break a brick with his hand! An expert is very good at something.
3. The training is difficult and Li can't live at home. Difficult means not easy.

Remember!

• Read the words around the new word.
• Check if your guess fits.

Check yourself

1. Is "I'm afraid you can't" a yes or a no?
2. What is the first step to guess a word: read the whole sentence or translate each word?