What are context clues?

Context clues are essential tools within a text that assist readers in deciphering the meanings of unfamiliar words or phrases. By analyzing surrounding words, sentences, and even the overall theme of the paragraph, readers can infer meanings and gain a deeper understanding of the material. Context clues offer hints or clues about the meaning of a word based on how it's used within the sentence or paragraph, making them invaluable for comprehension.

Option C highlights this critical aspect by specifying that context clues are "words or phrases that help identify the meaning of an unknown word," which captures the essence of how these clues function in enriching a reader's understanding. Recognizing context clues promotes vocabulary development and enhances reading comprehension, allowing readers to engage more effectively with the text.

The other options do not accurately describe context clues. The first option suggests an explicit definition, which is different from inferential clues. The second option implies distraction, which is contrary to the purpose of context clues. The fourth option presents a summary concept, which is unrelated to the function of context clues in defining or clarifying unknown words.