Encountering unfamiliar or "strange" words in the
English language can be a daunting experience for language learners and even
native speakers. While you may not always have a dictionary on hand, there are
several strategies you can use to guess the meaning of these unfamiliar words.
Developing this skill not only helps you expand your vocabulary but also
enhances your overall language comprehension. Here's a guide on how to guess
what strange words mean in English.
1. Analyze the Context:
Context is one of the most powerful tools for deciphering
the meaning of unknown words. Pay close attention to the surrounding words,
phrases, and sentences to see if they provide any clues. Consider the
following:
How is the word used in the sentence?
What is the subject or topic of the conversation or text?
Are there any synonyms or antonyms nearby that might give
you a hint?
For example, if you come across the word
"flabbergasted" in a sentence like "Her reaction left me
flabbergasted," the context suggests that "flabbergasted" means
surprised or astonished.
2. Break Down the Word:
Another helpful strategy is to break the strange word down
into its components. Consider the word's prefix, root, and suffix, if
applicable. Many English words are derived from Latin, Greek, or other
languages, and understanding these components can give you insight into the
word's meaning. For instance:
"Un-" often indicates negation (e.g.,
"unhappy" means not happy).
"Re-" suggests repetition or backward action
(e.g., "rewrite" means to write again).
"-ly" often forms adverbs (e.g.,
"quickly" means in a quick manner).
By analyzing the structure of the word, you can make
educated guesses about its meaning.
3. Visualize or Imagine:
Sometimes, it can be beneficial to visualize or imagine what
the word might mean based on its sound or structure. Even if you don't know the
exact definition, your imagination can help you come close to the correct
meaning. For example, the word "murmur" sounds like a soft,
indistinct sound, which can lead you to guess that it means a quiet or soft
noise.
4. Identify Familiar Word Parts:
If you can identify familiar word parts within the
unfamiliar word, you're on the right track. English is full of prefixes,
suffixes, and roots that recur in many words. If you recognize these elements,
they can provide valuable clues. For instance, the word "unhappiness"
contains the prefix "un-" and the root "happy," so you can
infer that it refers to a state of not being happy.
5. Check for Similar Words:
If the strange word reminds you of a word you already know,
it's worth exploring the similarity. Even if the words are not identical, they
may share a common root or etymology. For instance, if you know the word
"capture" and come across "uncaptured," you can reasonably
assume that it means not captured.
6. Use Online Resources:
In the age of technology, you can easily use online
resources to help you guess the meaning of strange words. Online dictionaries,
thesauri, and language-learning apps often provide definitions and examples,
making it easier to deduce the word's meaning.
7. Ask for Clarification:
If you're in a conversation or a learning environment, don't
be afraid to ask for clarification. People are generally willing to help and
explain unfamiliar words. Engaging in discussions and asking questions is an
excellent way to learn and enhance your vocabulary.
8. Keep a Vocabulary Journal:
Maintain a vocabulary journal in which you write down
strange or unfamiliar words you encounter. Include the context in which you
found the word and any guesses about its meaning. Over time, you can revisit
your journal to see if your guesses were accurate and to reinforce your
learning.
Remember that guessing the meaning of strange words is a
skill that improves with practice. As you encounter more and more unfamiliar
words, your ability to deduce their meanings will become more accurate. So,
embrace these strategies, and don't be afraid to dive into the world of
unfamiliar vocabulary. It's all part of the exciting journey of language
learning.
