What does a student's ability to supply definitions for several meanings of a word demonstrate?

A student's ability to supply definitions for several meanings of a word exemplifies extensive vocabulary knowledge. This skill indicates that the student not only knows the word itself but also understands its multifaceted nature and how it can change meaning depending on the context.

When a student can articulate different definitions, it suggests a deeper engagement with language, exposing them to various contexts in which a word might be used. This level of understanding goes beyond merely recognizing a word; it reflects familiarity with its nuances and flexibility in usage. Such knowledge is crucial for advanced reading comprehension and effective communication, as it allows for richer interpretation of texts and enhances a student's ability to express thoughts more clearly and precisely.

In contrast, basic comprehension might involve understanding a single meaning of a word or grasping literal texts, while advanced reading skills encompass broader strategies such as inference and critical thinking, which are supported by an extensive vocabulary. Recognition of phonetic rules relates more to decoding words rather than understanding their meanings in different contexts. Thus, extensive vocabulary knowledge is the most accurate representation of the skill described.