Describe the role of context clues in vocabulary development.

Context clues play a significant role in vocabulary development by aiding readers in inferring the meaning of unfamiliar words. When encountering a new word, readers can look to the surrounding sentences or phrases for hints that provide insight into the word's meaning. These clues can come in various forms, such as examples, antonyms, explanations, or descriptions. By using context clues, readers develop their ability to deduce meanings without needing to rely solely on a dictionary or predefined definitions, which fosters greater reading comprehension and language acquisition.

This skill enhances readers' understanding of texts and builds their vocabulary more organically through exposure and inference. Over time, this process contributes to a deeper and more flexible understanding of language, allowing readers to navigate diverse texts without feeling dependent on rote memorization or explicit definitions provided in the text.