What type of context clues are used to help define a word?

Definitions and explanations serve as effective context clues because they directly provide the meaning of a word within the surrounding text. When a text presents a term and follows it with a definition or clarifying details, it helps the reader grasp the intended meaning without needing to consult an external source. This direct approach ensures clarity and reinforces understanding, making it easier for readers to integrate new vocabulary into their own linguistic repertoire.

The other options, while useful in different contexts, do not specifically focus on providing direct definitions. Personal anecdotes may illustrate a point but do not offer a clear definition. Examples and analogies can help illuminate similar ideas but may not convey the exact meaning of the word itself. Allusions and references might enrich a text by connecting to broader themes or ideas but similarly do not define the word in a straightforward manner.