noun
context
KON-tehkst
noun
1
The circumstances or background information that helps explain or clarify something.
"You need to understand the historical context of the speech to appreciate it."
"Taken out of context, her remark sounded much harsher than she meant."
2
The words or text surrounding a particular word or passage that help clarify its meaning.
"The context makes it clear the word is being used sarcastically."
How to Use Context
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe surrounding information or situation that helps you understand what something really means.
Common pairings
in context
out of context
historical context
Word Forms
more context comparative, contexted past tense, contexts plural, contexts singular, most context superlative
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You need to understand the historical _____ of the speech to appreciate it.
Etymology
From Latin contextus, "a joining together, connection," related to contexere ("to weave together").