Word Analysis

Multiple-Meaning Words
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Multiple-meaning words have more than one meaning. For examp e, foir can mean "equal" or •an
o utdoor event" Use co ntext clues to help find tie Inte nded meaning of multiple-meaning words.

Multiple-Meaning Words in Context

As a noun, rule means •an i nstruction about behavior." As a verb, it can mean "to make a legal
decision: Underline the context clues that clarify the mea ning of rules in the sentences below.

''They wrote the Constitution to set rules for how the United States governs itselr
-"BIi of Rights"
'A federaljudge rules the NSA is likely violating the Fourth Amendment"
-"A History of Listening In"

Analyze Multiple-Meaning Words

..
Read each sentence. Then write the part of speech and definition of each word in bold. Use e dictionary if needed.

Multiple-Meaning Word Part of Speech

1. Delaware was the firststate

i noun an area that is part of a countr!j
adm tted to the Union.

2. The first 10 amendments state the

basic freedoms of ell Americans. say of
say, tell

3. We watched the president's

noun television
speech on the monitor.

4. The NSA wants to monitor

verb watch
conversations between s uspects.

i
Write sen:ences using the part of speech and definit on ptovided for each multiple-meaning word.

6. case (noun, a trial) Thejudge told the jur!:I not to discuss the case outside of court.

6. case (noun, an example) In one case a student received D-hall for not wearing an ID badge.
7. fine(noun, money paid as punishment) I had to pay a library fine for my late book.

8. fine(adjective, ofhigh quality) That work is a fine example of A work.

It's Your Right 141