Which context clue type provides a direct explanation or definition of a word within the sentence?

• A. Explanation
• B. Synonym
• C. Antonym
• D. Example

Answer: (A)

Direct definition clues give the meaning of a word right in the sentence. When you see a term paired with a phrase that explains it—often using signals like which means, that is, in other words, or a restatement—the sentence itself defines the word for you. This makes it the clearest way to figure out the word’s meaning because you don’t have to infer from surrounding synonyms or examples; the definition is provided directly.

That’s why this option fits best: it explicitly supplies the meaning of the term. Other clue types, like synonyms or antonyms, hint at meaning indirectly by comparison or contrast, and examples illustrate a term through a category or instance rather than giving a direct definition.