Use dictionary entries to determine correct usage

Learning Objectives Identify a multiple-meaning word within a sentence. Locate and read all definitions for an entry word in a dictionary. Use context clues from a sentence to select the correct dictionary definition. Identify the part of speech (noun, verb, adjective) for each definition. Match the part of speech of a word in a sentence to the correct dictionary definition. Write a new sentence correctly using a different meaning of the same word. Have you ever told a friend to 'watch' a movie, but they thought you meant to look at your wrist watch? ⌚ Let's become word detectives and solve these mix-ups! Many words in English have more than one meaning. In this lesson, you will learn how to use a dictionary entry as a powerful tool to figure out exactly whi...

TermDefinitionExample Multiple-Meaning WordA single word that has two or more different meanings.The word 'bat' can mean a flying mammal or a piece of equipment used in baseball. Dictionary EntryThe block of information in a dictionary that explains a single word. It includes the word, its pronunciation, part of speech, and definitions.The entire section in the dictionary for the word 'run' is its entry. DefinitionThe specific meaning of a word. Multiple-meaning words will have numbered definitions in their entry.1. a place to keep money. 2. the land alongside a river. (These are two definitions for 'bank'). Part of SpeechA category that tells you how a word is used in a sentence (e.g., noun, verb, adjective). Dictionary entries label each definition with its...

Rule 1: Use Context Clues First Always read the full sentence where the multiple-meaning word appears. Look for other words that give you hints about the meaning. Before you even open the dictionary, your brain can often narrow down the possibilities. This makes finding the right definition much faster. Rule 2: Check the Part of Speech Identify how the word is being used in the sentence (as a noun, verb, adjective, etc.). Then, find the dictionary definition that matches that part of speech. This is the most powerful way to eliminate incorrect definitions. If the word is used as an action (verb), you can ignore all the noun definitions. Rule 3: Read ALL the Definitions Never stop at the first definition. Read all the numbered definitions for the correct part of speech...