What technique is utilized to help in the understanding of word meanings within passages?

Recognizing context clues is an effective technique for understanding word meanings within passages. When reading, authors often provide hints or clues within the surrounding text that help define or give significance to unfamiliar words. These clues can be in the form of synonyms, antonyms, or explanations that clarify the meaning. By paying attention to how a word is used in relation to other words in the sentence or paragraph, readers can infer the word's meaning more accurately.

For instance, if a passage describes a situation using the terms "brisk," "refreshing," and "invigorating," a reader might deduce that the passage is discussing something positive and energizing, even if they do not know the exact definition of "brisk." Context clues provide a broader understanding of the text, making it easier to grasp not just specific word meanings but also the overall message or theme of the passage.