Concept · Foundations
Contextual Meaning
The meaning of a word, phrase, or passage as determined by its surrounding linguistic and situational context rather than by dictionary definition alone.
Why it matters
Meaning is context-dependent; ignoring context is the most common source of misinterpretation.
Where this shows up
Units and lessons using this concept
Following the links will take you to the page where this term is introduced in context.
Lessons (4)
Capstone: The Full Interpretive ArgumentHermeneutics: Arguing for an InterpretationInterpretation as Argument: Why Readings Need DefenseHermeneutics: Arguing for an InterpretationThe Literal Default: Why Plain Meaning Comes FirstHermeneutics: Arguing for an InterpretationThe Metaphorical Escape: When People Dodge the Literal MeaningHermeneutics: Arguing for an Interpretation
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