Which of the following best describes the role of context clues in reading?

Context clues serve a vital function in reading comprehension by providing readers with hints or information surrounding unfamiliar words or concepts. When encountering a new term or an idea that is difficult to understand, readers can look at the surrounding sentences or phrases for cues that can illuminate the meaning. These clues may come in the form of synonyms, antonyms, examples, or even descriptive phrases that help to fill in the gaps in understanding.

For instance, if a sentence introduces a challenging word followed by a sentence that explains it or provides a related concept, the reader can infer the meaning of the unfamiliar term based on that information. This process enhances comprehension and enables readers to engage more fully with the text without needing to constantly consult a dictionary or external resources. Thus, the statement that context clues clarify the meanings of unfamiliar words or ideas accurately captures their essential role in reading.