Entry Words

Definition

Entry words are the main words or terms listed in a dictionary or glossary that provide definitions and information about their meanings. These words are essential in vocabulary development as they serve as the foundation for understanding language and its usage, often being accompanied by context clues that help explain their meanings in different scenarios.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Entry words are usually presented in boldface or highlighted text in dictionaries to make them easily identifiable.
2. Each entry word typically includes pronunciation guides, part of speech, and various definitions that illustrate different contexts in which the word can be used.
3. Understanding entry words is crucial for effective reading comprehension, as they are often pivotal in deciphering more complex texts.
4. Dictionaries may also include example sentences for entry words, which showcase how the word functions in context, enhancing vocabulary retention.
5. Recognizing entry words and their meanings can significantly improve writing skills by allowing individuals to choose more precise language.

Review Questions

• How do entry words contribute to effective vocabulary development in reading?
  • Entry words are fundamental to vocabulary development because they act as anchor points for understanding language. By learning the meanings of entry words, readers can enhance their comprehension of texts and develop a richer vocabulary. Additionally, context clues associated with entry words further aid readers in grasping nuanced meanings, allowing for deeper engagement with written material.
• Discuss the relationship between entry words and context clues when interpreting unfamiliar vocabulary.
  • Entry words and context clues work hand in hand when it comes to interpreting unfamiliar vocabulary. Entry words provide the core definition, while context clues offer additional hints that reveal how those words function within sentences. For example, if an entry word appears alongside descriptive phrases or related concepts, readers can infer its meaning more accurately, making it easier to understand the text as a whole.
• Evaluate the importance of utilizing both entry words and context clues for mastering advanced vocabulary in academic writing.
  • Utilizing both entry words and context clues is crucial for mastering advanced vocabulary, especially in academic writing. Entry words help establish a foundational understanding of complex terms, while context clues allow writers to apply these terms appropriately within their work. This combination not only enriches writing by incorporating precise language but also enhances clarity and effectiveness in communication. Mastering this skill can lead to more compelling arguments and analyses in academic settings.

Related terms

Glossary: A glossary is a list of terms with definitions related to a specific subject, often found at the end of a book or document, providing readers with quick access to key vocabulary.

Context Clues: Context clues are hints or information within a text that help readers infer the meaning of unfamiliar words by examining the surrounding sentences or phrases.

Thesaurus: A thesaurus is a reference book or tool that lists words grouped together according to similarity of meaning (synonyms) and sometimes also includes antonyms.