Vocabulary in Context
Vocabulary in Context is an 11+ English task where pupils work out the meaning of a word from how it is used in a sentence or passage, rather than from a dictionary definition alone. It usually takes a multiple-choice 'closest in meaning to' format and appears within or alongside comprehension sections of GL Assessment and CSSE-style entrance papers.
Before you start
No specific prerequisites - this is a good place to start.
Method
- Read the whole sentence the word appears in, not just the word on its own, since context often changes or narrows a word's meaning.
- Cover the target word and predict your own word or phrase that would make sense in the gap.
- Compare your prediction to the answer options and choose the one closest in meaning, even if it is not an exact match.
- Rule out options that are the wrong word class, for example a verb offered where an adjective is needed, or that mean the opposite.
- Look for clues in nearby words, such as words joined by 'but' or 'although', which often signal a contrast in meaning.
- Reread the sentence with your chosen answer substituted in to check it still makes complete sense.
Worked example
'Although the coach's instructions were terse, the team understood exactly what was required.' 'Terse' is closest in meaning to: A) friendly and warm B) brief and to the point C) confusing D) extremely long
- Read the whole sentence: the word 'Although' signals a contrast between the instructions and the team still understanding.
- Predict a meaning: since the team understood despite the coach's manner, 'terse' probably describes something short or curt, not warm or confusing.
- Check each option against this prediction: A (friendly) does not fit the contrast signalled by 'Although'; C (confusing) contradicts 'understood exactly'; D (extremely long) also contradicts the sense of a quick, clipped instruction.
- Option B (brief and to the point) fits: short, blunt instructions can still be perfectly clear, which matches 'understood exactly what was required'.
- Final answer: B) brief and to the point.
Practice questions
Try each question, then tap to reveal the answer.
Exam-style questions
Written in the style of a 11+ exam paper, with a full mark scheme.
'The manager's decision was met with muted applause.' Explain what 'muted' suggests about the applause, and identify one word or phrase in the sentence that supports your answer. (2 marks)
'The old bridge, though undeniably picturesque, was condemned as structurally unsound.' Explain the meanings of 'picturesque' and 'condemned' as used in this sentence, and explain how the word 'though' links the two ideas. (4 marks)
'The committee's response was diplomatic rather than decisive, leaving many members none the wiser about its true position.' Explain what this sentence suggests about the committee's response, referring closely to the words 'diplomatic' and 'decisive' in your answer. (5 marks)
Free printable worksheet
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