Question

Carlos was ambidextrous, so, when he sprained his right wrist, he was still able to throw accurately with this left hand. In 3–5 sentences, define ambidextrous and explain how both the context clues and word parts can help you discover the word’s meaning.

Answer 1

The word 'ambidextrous' describes the ability to use both hands with equal skill. It can be deduced from the context of a person being able to perform tasks with either hand and from the word parts 'ambi-' meaning both and '-dextrous' meaning right hand or skillful.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term ambidextrous refers to the ability to use both the left and right hand equally well. Context clues within the scenario suggest that Carlos, who is ambidextrous, can perform tasks such as throwing accurately with either hand, as indicated by his ability to continue throwing accurately with his left hand despite a sprained right wrist.

Analyzing the word parts, 'ambi-' means both, and '-dextrous' relates to the right hand or being skillful; thus, ambidextrous literally translates to being skillful with both hands. This skill can be particularly advantageous when one hand is injured, as in the case of Carlos.