Here's why:
* Direct Definition: The text might explicitly define the word, often using synonyms or explanations. For example, "The burly man, meaning strong and muscular, lifted the heavy crate."
* Examples: The text might provide examples of what the word refers to, helping you understand its meaning through application. For example, "The fauna of the rainforest includes monkeys, parrots, and jaguars."
* Synonyms or Antonyms: The text might use synonyms or antonyms to help you understand the word's meaning. For example, "The serene lake, in contrast to the turbulent river, offered a peaceful escape."
* Restatement: The text might restate the word's meaning in a different way. For example, "The archaic language, or the language of the past, was difficult to decipher."
* Logical Inference: The text might not directly define the word but provide clues through the overall context. For example, "The mysterious figure slipped into the shadows, leaving only whispers of his presence."
By analyzing the surrounding context, you can infer the most appropriate definition of a word, even if it's unfamiliar to you. This is crucial for understanding written and spoken communication effectively.