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Contextual: meaning, definitions and examples

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contextual

 

[kənˈtɛks.tjʊ.əl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

related usage

The term 'contextual' refers to something that is dependent on or related to the context in which it occurs. It implies that the meaning or significance of an event, concept, or object can vary depending on the surrounding circumstances or situation. Contextual factors are essential in interpreting information accurately, as they provide the necessary background to understand the nuances of a given scenario. In disciplines such as linguistics, psychology, and social sciences, contextual analysis plays a crucial role in deriving meaning from data or interactions.

Synonyms

environmental, relational, situational.

Examples of usage

  • Contextual learning enhances understanding.
  • Contextual advertising targets consumers effectively.
  • The novel's themes are contextual to its setting.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • Derived from Latin 'contextus,' meaning 'joining together' or 'to weave together,' reflecting how different parts come together to create meaning.
  • The prefix 'con-' suggests ‘together’ while 'texere' means ‘to weave,’ emphasizing how different elements interconnect.
  • First recorded usage in English dates back to the early 19th century, indicating the growing importance of situational understanding in language.

Psychology

  • Understanding behavior often requires a contextual analysis; actions might make sense in one scenario but not in another.
  • The 'context effect' in cognitive psychology states that information is better recalled if it's presented in the same context where it was learned.
  • Studies show people comprehend and remember material better when they know the context, such as social or physical environments.

Literature

  • In literature, understanding a character's motivations requires considering their background—a contextual approach to analysis.
  • Contextual literary criticism looks at how historical and cultural factors influence the creation and interpretation of texts.
  • Authors often craft stories with situational context in mind, using setting and time to deeply enrich narrative depth.

Education

  • Contextual learning promotes connecting new information with real-world situations, making lessons more relatable.
  • Teachers encourage contextual application by relating subjects to students' lives, fostering engagement and retention.
  • Studies suggest students learn more effectively when concepts are anchored in a relevant context, enhancing comprehension.

Technology

  • In artificial intelligence, ‘contextual awareness’ allows systems to tailor responses based on situational understanding.
  • Applications use contextual data, like location or user behavior, to personalize experiences significantly, improving interaction.
  • Big data analytics increasingly relies on contextual clues to predict trends, enhancing decision-making processes in businesses.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,061, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.