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Context

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. The circumstances, conditions, or facts that surround an event or situation, helping to explain it.
2. The part of a text or speech that precedes or follows a particular word or passage, influencing its meaning.
3. The background or environment in which something is situated, providing a clearer understanding of its significance.
4. The setting or situation that gives meaning to a particular action, event, or expression.
5. In linguistics, the words, sentences, or phrases surrounding a word that help determine its meaning.

History and Origin

The word “context” comes from the Latin contextus, meaning “a joining together,” derived from com- (together) and texere (to weave). It was first used in English in the early 16th century to describe the parts of a written work that are interwoven or connected to each other. Over time, its use broadened to refer to any surrounding circumstances or background that help explain something more clearly.

Detailed Explanation

“Context” is crucial for understanding the meaning of something, whether it’s a piece of text, a spoken statement, or an event. Without context, it is easy to misinterpret the significance or intention behind words, actions, or situations. For instance, in language, the meaning of a word can change depending on the surrounding text, while in social or cultural settings, the broader circumstances help clarify why something is happening. Context adds depth to our understanding, allowing for a more complete and accurate interpretation of information.

Example Sentences

1. The context of her decision to leave the company made it clear that she was seeking new challenges.
2. Without the proper context, the quote could easily be misunderstood.
3. To understand the full story, you need to know the context in which it happened.
4. The historical context of the novel helps explain its characters’ behavior.
5. In this context, the word “bank” refers to a financial institution, not the side of a river.
6. The artist’s personal context influenced the themes in her paintings.
7. The context of the political climate made his speech more impactful.
8. She provided the context needed to understand the challenges they faced.
9. You must consider the social context before judging the actions of others.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Background – The conditions or circumstances that provide understanding to a situation.
2. Setting – The environment or context in which something happens, often used in literature or events.
3. Circumstances – The facts or conditions that surround a particular situation or event.
4. Environment – The surrounding conditions, especially those that influence or shape something.
5. Situation – The context or state of affairs in which something occurs or exists.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Framework – The structure or system within which something is understood or analyzed.
2. Perspective – A particular way of considering something, often shaped by context.
3. Interpretation – The act of explaining or understanding something in context.
4. Condition – The circumstances or factors that influence or determine an event or action.
5. Situation – The set of circumstances or context in which something occurs or is evaluated.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Backdrop – The background or context in which something is set, often used in drama or history.
2. Climate – The prevailing conditions, especially in a political or social sense, providing context to actions.
3. Conditioning – The factors or context that shape someone’s behavior or response.
4. Circumstantial – Related to or dependent on the context or situation.
5. Milieu – The social or cultural environment in which something occurs, adding context to an event or action.

Antonyms

1. Out of context
2. Disconnection
3. Isolation
4. Independence
5. Irrelevance