noun

context

context, situation, background

You must understand the historical context.

You must understand the historical context.

His words were taken out of context.

His words were taken out of context.

((in the context of sth.)) in the circumstances surrounding (sth.) You must understand the historical context.

((out of context)) without the surrounding words or circumstances His words were taken out of context.

Synonyms: situation, background, circumstances

From Latin con- 'with' + texere 'to weave'. Literally 'what is woven together'.

Think of a 'text' and what comes 'with' (con-) it. The context is what is woven around the main point.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.