contextual

American  

[kuhn-teks-choo-uhl] / kənˈtɛks tʃu əl /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or depending on the context.

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contextual British  

/ kənˈtɛkstjʊəl /

adjective

1. relating to, dependent on, or using context

   contextual criticism of a book

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Other Word Forms

• contextually adverb
• noncontextual adjective
• noncontextually adverb

Etymology

Origin of contextual

1805–15; < Latin contextu-, stem of contextus context + -al ¹

Example Sentences

The exhibits are presented factually, offering layers of contextual information and avoiding editorializing—unlocking history, not rewriting it.

From The Wall Street Journal

When Ms. Ruden moves away from the text to discuss broader historical and contextual issues, however, her grip is less sure.

From The Wall Street Journal

The story is augmented by timelines that add a contextual charm all their own.

From The Wall Street Journal

It was a thought-provoking hour, offering new contextual insight into period music and art that we think we know.

From The Wall Street Journal

The last contextual indignity are the details of the period itself: Nixon posters, anti-war signs, Vietnam footage on televisions, a protest march.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• circumstantial
• dependent