What role do descriptive words serve in context clues?

Descriptive words play a critical role in context clues by providing necessary information about word usage. They help readers infer the meaning of unfamiliar words based on characteristics or qualities associated with them. For instance, if a text describes a "dilapidated" building using words like "crumbling," "abandoned," or "run-down," those descriptive words give readers insight into the likely meaning of "dilapidated."

Using descriptive words in this way allows readers to build a contextual understanding of the unfamiliar term, enhancing their comprehension and vocabulary skills. While examples, synonyms, and opposites can also enrich understanding, it is the descriptive words that specifically clarify how a term functions within the context of the sentence or passage, making them a crucial tool for interpretation.