Context clues refer to the surrounding information of an unfamiliar or unknown word that we use in order to infer the meaning of that word. The statements ask us to base our answer on context clues, therefore, what we have to do is to look to the surrounding information of the word mentioned in order to infer its meaning. Here are the answers:
1. Based on context clues, what is the meaning of the word repugnant in the sentence?
My friend Sally refuses to eat beets, which she finds to be repugnant.
D. gross or distasteful
Sally refusal to eat beets is an indication that this food completely disgusts her. Thus, we can infer that repugnant means gross or distasteful
2. Based on context clues, what is the meaning of the word informal in the first sentence?
Today’s informal discussion was like a conversation, with both of us adding references to our own lives. Yesterday’s discussion was the opposite; we talked only business, nothing personal.
B. friendly and relaxed
An informal discussion that is more like a conversation and there are people talking about their lives, can be considered as friendly and relaxed. Contrary to a formal discussion that is not friendly, personal or relaxed.
3. What does the word tone mean in this sentence?
The tone of the poem is difficult for readers to determine because the feelings the words express change over the course of the poem.
B. the attitude of the poem's speaker
The sentence uses one key word that helps us infer that tone refers to the attitude of the poem's speaker to the poem: feelings. Feelings are subjective, as well as someone's attitude toward something.