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Vocabulary Question Strategies
for the TOEFL Reading Section

Vocabulary questions in the TOEFL reading section test your ability to understand words in context. Learn strategies to tackle them confidently and boost your score!

Strategies for Vocabulary Questions

When taking the TOEFL reading section, you'll encounter vocabulary questions that ask you to determine the meaning of a word based on its context in the passage. Here are some strategies to help you tackle these types of questions:

  1. Look for Context Clues: Try to understand the meaning of the word by reading the sentences before and after it. Look for clues such as synonyms, antonyms, or other descriptive words that can help you deduce the meaning of the word.
  2. Pay Attention to the Word's Form: Check if the word is an adjective, adverb, verb, or noun. This can help you eliminate incorrect choices.
  3. Use Contrast Words: Look for words like "but," "however," or "although" that indicate a contrast or change in direction. These words can help you determine the meaning of the word.
  4. Connect the Word to One You Know: Try to make a connection between the new word and a word you already know that has a similar meaning. This can help you remember the new word and understand its meaning.

Example Vocabulary Question

Passage Snippet:
"The scientist's discovery was profound, changing the way researchers understood the behavior of subatomic particles."

Question:
The word "profound" most nearly means:





Answer: b) Deep
Explanation: The context clue "changing the way researchers understood" suggests the discovery had a significant impact, aligning with "deep" (meaning significant or far-reaching). "Simple," "temporary," and "unimportant" don’t fit the context.

Try It Yourself!

Passage Snippet:
"The artist's work was often described as enigmatic, leaving viewers puzzled yet intrigued by its hidden meanings."

Question:
The word "enigmatic" most nearly means:





By using these strategies, you'll be better equipped to tackle vocabulary questions on the TOEFL reading section. Practice regularly to build your confidence!