Vocabulary in Context - SSAT Middle Level: Reading

New or original. As an adjective, 'novel' describes something innovative, fitting the context of a unique problem-solving method.

An early version of a piece of writing. In writing contexts, 'draft' refers to a preliminary version, as seen in the revision process of an essay.

A current of air. This usage of 'draft' means a flow of air, fitting the description of cold air entering through a window.

To give way; to let others go first. In traffic contexts, 'yield' means to give priority, as required when facing oncoming vehicles.

To produce; to provide as a result. Here, 'yield' indicates production, suitable for describing trees bearing fruit seasonally.

A penalty or punishment. In this punitive context, 'sanction' means a penalty, aligning with impositions for rule violations in a league.

“That is”. “That is” directly signals an upcoming explanation or definition, distinguishing it from signals for examples or contrasts.

It directly states the meaning, often in apposition or after a cue phrase. A definition clue explicitly provides the meaning of the word, typically through direct explanation or appositive phrases for clarity.

Nearby text (context clues) is more reliable than dictionary memory. Context clues in nearby text reveal the specific usage in the passage, making them more dependable than recalled dictionary definitions which may not fit precisely.

A dash. A dash often separates a restatement or elaboration, setting it apart from the main clause for emphasis and clarity.

It rephrases the idea using a similar, clearer word or phrase. A synonym or restatement clue clarifies the unfamiliar word by re-expressing it with equivalent, more familiar terms.

It shows an opposite or different idea that helps define the word. A contrast clue presents an opposing idea, allowing inference of the word's meaning through differentiation from the known contrast.

“For instance”. “For instance” typically precedes specific examples that illustrate the word's meaning, unlike signals for contrast or conclusion.

Specific instances that reveal the word’s category or traits. Example clues offer concrete illustrations that help infer the general meaning or characteristics of the unfamiliar word.

Denotation is literal meaning; connotation is emotional or cultural shading. Denotation refers to the explicit dictionary definition, while connotation involves implied emotional or associative nuances influenced by context.

Approval or admiration. Positive connotations imply favorable views, reflecting the author's supportive or appreciative stance toward the described subject.

Disapproval, criticism, or distrust. Negative connotations convey unfavorable implications, indicating the author's critical or skeptical perspective on the subject.

The sentence provides constraints that eliminate incorrect meanings. The full sentence offers contextual constraints that narrow down possible meanings, ensuring the selected definition fits logically.

Select the meaning that best matches the passage’s specific context. Choosing the context-specific meaning ensures coherence with the passage, even if other dictionary definitions exist but do not align.

To ask as a price; to bill. In this financial context, 'charge' refers to demanding payment, fitting the scenario of professional services.

To rush forward aggressively. Here, 'charge' denotes aggressive forward movement, appropriate for describing the bull's action toward the fence.

The land along the edge of a river. In this natural setting, 'bank' means the riverside land, suiting the description of a grassy area by water.

A financial institution. This usage of 'bank' indicates a place for financial transactions, aligning with depositing a paycheck.

A long fictional book. Here, 'novel' functions as a noun meaning a book-length story, appropriate for library borrowing.