Determine Meaning: Words and Phrases

Idioms

A commonly used phrase or clause that is specific to a certain region, language, or culture.

Oxymoron

A contradiction in terms, or a phrase that creates a paradoxical effect

Euphemism

A mild or vague expression that is used in place of one that might be harsh, blunt, or offensive.

Nuance

A subtle difference in meaning.

Idioms are figures of speech that.

Are not meant to be taken literally. Are used to emphasize a point. May vary by culture and region.

Context clues

Hints to a words meaning that are found in the text around the word.

The nuance of a word is the subtitle way.

It's meaning differs from other words with similar denotations.

Hyperbole

Language that exaggerates or overstates something for effect.

Definition clues appear in text.

Near difficult words.

Personification

The lending of human qualities to animals, objects, or abstract concepts.

Inferences can be made when

The text requires the reader to use reasoning to determine the meaning of an unfamiliar word.

Synonym clues appear..

When the text surrounding an unfamiliar word contains a word with a similar meaning.

Antonyms appear

When the text surrounding an unfamiliar word contains a word with the opposite meaning.

Denotations and Connotations.

Words may have positive or negative emotional meanings beyond their literal definitions.

When figurative language is used,

words express something beyond their ordinary meaning.

When literal language is used,

words mean exactly what they say.