In defining an unfamiliar word, what should one rely on?

Relying on context and surrounding words is essential when defining an unfamiliar word because context clues enhance comprehension and meaning. When encountering a new word, readers can often look for cues in the sentences or phrases preceding or following it. These clues may include descriptive language, examples, antonyms, or comparisons that can provide insight into the word's meaning. For instance, if a sentence describes a character as "benevolent" in a context involving kindness and generosity, readers can infer that "benevolent" likely relates to being kind or charitable.

Context helps to narrow down possible meanings based on how the word is used in specific situations, making it a reliable strategy for vocabulary development and enhancing overall reading comprehension.