Context Clues: Mechanics and Categories

The cost of dictionary dependence

Category one: examples and illustration words

Category two: synonyms and restatement

Category three: antonyms and contrast

Category four: general sense and situation

Read the sentence: "The administration implemented several draconian measures to address the budget crisis, including freezing all new hiring, eliminating overtime pay, and cutting departmental budgets by forty percent." What is the meaning of "draconian" as used in this sentence?

Read the sentence: "Rather than displaying an ephemeral interest in photography that faded after a few weeks, Marcus maintained an enduring passion that led to a professional career." Based on the contrast clue, what does "ephemeral" mean?

Read the sentence: "The novel's protagonist suffered from chronic malaise—a persistent feeling of unease and dissatisfaction—that colored every aspect of her daily life." What does "malaise" mean in this context?

Read the sentence: "To protect the ancient manuscripts from humidity damage, curators stored them in hermetically sealed containers with controlled atmosphere." Based on the general sense of the situation, "hermetically" most nearly means: in an ____ manner.