How do context clues enhance reading comprehension?

Context clues enhance reading comprehension primarily by helping readers infer the meanings of unfamiliar words or phrases through the surrounding text. When readers encounter a challenging word, the context often contains hints such as synonyms, antonyms, examples, or descriptions that clarify or suggest the meaning of the unfamiliar term. This active engagement with the text allows readers to develop a deeper understanding, as they are not just passively accepting new vocabulary but are instead actively working to decode and integrate these new words into their understanding of the overall narrative or argument.

For instance, if a reader comes across the word "gregarious" in a sentence that describes someone who enjoys social gatherings, they can use the context provided by the text to conclude that "gregarious" relates to being sociable. This skill of using context clues not only aids in vocabulary acquisition but also contributes to better overall comprehension of the material, enabling the reader to grasp the intended message or themes more effectively.