What does "context" refer to in reading comprehension?

In reading comprehension, "context" refers to the surrounding information that clarifies meaning. This includes the circumstances, background, and details within a text that help readers understand the intended message and nuance of what is being communicated. Context can provide insights into the author's purpose, the setting of the narrative, the relationships between characters, or the historical background of events described.

For example, understanding the context can influence how a particular phrase or word is interpreted, as words can have different meanings depending on their surrounding elements. Context also aids in making inferences about characters’ motivations or the mood of a passage. Recognizing the context allows readers to engage more deeply with the text, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of the material.