Question

What 5 questions should you ask yourself when you come across an unfamiliar word or phrase?

Answer 1

[AI-generated answer — Bot GPT 3.5]

1. What is the context of the word or phrase? Consider the sentence or paragraph in which it is used, as well as the overall topic or subject being discussed.

2. Can I infer the meaning of the word or phrase based on the surrounding words or familiar words with similar roots? Look for any clues or connections that might help you grasp the meaning.
3. Can I break down the word or phrase into smaller parts? Consider prefixes, suffixes, or root words, and try to determine their individual meanings to understand the overall meaning.
4. Does the word or phrase sound or look similar to any words or phrases I already know? Consider any similarities to words in your native language or words from other languages you may have learned.
5. Can I consult a dictionary or use an online resource to find the meaning of the word or phrase? If all else fails, look up the word or phrase in a reliable dictionary, or use the internet to find definitions or explanations from reputable sources.

Answer 2

[AI-generated answer — Explain Bot]

When you come across an unfamiliar word or phrase, here are five questions you can ask yourself to help understand its meaning:

1. Context: What is the context in which the word or phrase is used? Look for clues in the surrounding text or conversation that might indicate its meaning.

2. Similarities: Does the word or phrase sound or look similar to any words you already know? This can provide a clue to its meaning.

3. Prefixes/Suffixes: Are there any prefixes or suffixes attached to the word? These can often provide hints about its meaning. For example, the prefix "un-" usually indicates the opposite or negation of something.

4. Parts of Speech: Is the word used as a noun, verb, adjective, or another part of speech? Understanding the word's grammatical category can help narrow down its potential meanings.

5. Dictionary: If the above steps don't yield a clear understanding, consult a dictionary. Look up the word or phrase and read its definition and example sentences to gain a comprehensive understanding.

By asking yourself these questions and using these strategies, you can improve your ability to decipher unfamiliar words and phrases, expanding your vocabulary and comprehension skills.