context
The circumstances, environment, or background that form the setting for an event, statement, or idea, which allows it to be fully understood. In linguistics, it refers to the parts of a written or spoken statement that precede or follow a specific word or passage, influencing its meaning.
Examples
3 of 5I didn't mean to offend anyone; my comments were taken out of context.
I didn't intend to be rude; my words were misunderstood because the surrounding explanation was removed.
The historical context of the French Revolution is essential for understanding the rise of Napoleon.
The background events of the French Revolution are necessary to understand how Napoleon came to power.
Wait, give me some context before you show me that weird video.
Hold on, explain the situation to me before I watch that strange video.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of 'con-' (together) and '-text' (weaving). Context is how the 'text' is woven together with its surroundings.
Quick Quiz
The politician claimed his remarks were taken out of _______ by the media to make him look bad.
Correct!
The correct answer is: context
Examples
I didn't mean to offend anyone; my comments were taken out of context.
everydayI didn't intend to be rude; my words were misunderstood because the surrounding explanation was removed.
The historical context of the French Revolution is essential for understanding the rise of Napoleon.
formalThe background events of the French Revolution are necessary to understand how Napoleon came to power.
Wait, give me some context before you show me that weird video.
informalHold on, explain the situation to me before I watch that strange video.
Sociolinguists argue that language acquisition cannot be studied apart from its social context.
academicLanguage experts believe learning a language must be studied alongside the social environment it happens in.
In the context of the current global recession, we must reconsider our expansion plans.
businessGiven the current worldwide economic decline, we need to think again about our plans to grow.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
in the context of
considering the specific circumstances of
out of context
without the surrounding words or circumstances
put into context
to explain the background to help someone understand
Often Confused With
Content refers to the substance or what is inside, while context refers to the surroundings that give the substance meaning.
Contact refers to communication or physical touching, whereas context is a conceptual framework.
Usage Notes
Context is almost always used with the preposition 'in' or 'within'. It is a vital word in academic writing for defining the boundaries of an argument.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'context' when they mean 'content'. Another mistake is omitting the definite article in the phrase 'in the context of'.
Memory Tip
Think of 'con-' (together) and '-text' (weaving). Context is how the 'text' is woven together with its surroundings.
Word Origin
From the Latin 'contextus', meaning 'a joining together', from 'com-' (together) and 'texere' (to weave).
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In 'high-context' cultures (like Japan or Arab nations), communication relies heavily on implicit context, whereas 'low-context' cultures (like Germany or the US) rely on explicit words.
Quick Quiz
The politician claimed his remarks were taken out of _______ by the media to make him look bad.
Correct!
The correct answer is: context
Related Grammar Rules
Related Phrases
Related Vocabulary
A particular attitude toward or way of regarding something;...
interpretationThe act of explaining, reframing, or showing your own unders...
relevanceThe state or quality of being closely connected, appropriate...
backdropThe setting or background against which an event or scene ha...
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