✨ Introduction
Mastering Reading Comprehension begins with mastering the words!
In this post, we dive deep into vocabulary taken directly from an actual CAT RC passage. Each word has been explained in a simple, easy-to-understand way, along with examples to help you grasp its usage in real contexts.
From words like "species" and "cognitive" to "subjection" and "paradise," strengthen your vocabulary one word at a time — and take your RC performance to the next level!
📚 What’s Inside This Vocabulary Post?
- 🔍 Words Sourced from an Actual CAT RC Passage: Directly pick up important vocabulary from real CAT exam material.
- 🧠 Meaningful Explanations: Understand the exact meaning and usage of each word in a simple, student-friendly way.
- ✍️ Context-Based Learning: Learn words with examples that reflect their actual usage in reading comprehension contexts.
- 🗂️ Quick Reference Format: Words are neatly listed with meanings, parts of speech, and example sentences for easy revision.
- 🚀 Boost Your RC and Verbal Ability Skills: Improve your understanding of tough passages by strengthening your vocabulary.
📝 Words Covered in This Article:
- Cobblestoned
- Replica
- Pamphlets
- Narcissistic
- Unleashed
- Daydreaming
- Attic
- Merely
- Enlightened
- Suppression
WORD-1: Cobblestoned
Context:
"I used a smartphone GPS to find my way through the cobblestoned maze of Geneva’s Old Town, in search of a handmade machine that changed the world more than any other invention." - Travel Feature
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Cobblestoned" refers to a surface, especially a street or pathway, that is paved with cobblestones—rounded stones traditionally used for road building. These types of streets are often associated with old towns and historical places. In this context, it evokes a picturesque, winding path in Geneva, rich in charm and history, making navigation slightly challenging but visually memorable.
Meaning: Paved or covered with rounded stones, typically for streets (Adjective)
Pronunciation: KOB-uhl-stohnd
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From “cobble” (a small rounded stone) + “stone”; used since the Middle Ages for road surfaces
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Cobblestoned" instantly paints a visual scene—think of charming European streets or historical alleys. It adds texture and time to a place. Great word for descriptive writing and travel narratives!
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: paved, stony, rough-surfaced, stone-paved
Antonyms: smooth, asphalted, concrete-paved, tarred
Usage Examples:
- The cobblestoned streets of Prague echo with centuries of history.
- We walked through a quaint, cobblestoned alley lit by lanterns.
- Her heels clicked noisily on the cobblestoned square.
- Many European old towns still preserve their cobblestoned charm.
Cultural Reference:
Famous areas like Montmartre in Paris or the Old Town of Tallinn, Estonia are known for their cobblestoned streets, which attract tourists looking for an old-world feel. - European Travel Guides
Think About It:
Do older, cobblestoned environments help us feel more connected to history—and if so, why?
Quick Activity:
Describe a place you’ve visited (or seen in pictures) with cobblestoned streets. What kind of mood or feeling did it evoke?
Memory Tip:
Break it down: "cobble" = round stone + "stoned" = covered with — picture a street made of little rounded rocks!
Real-World Application:
“Cobblestoned” is often used in travel writing, historical fiction, and city planning to describe areas with preserved heritage. It also reflects a slower, pedestrian-friendly way of life.
WORD-2: Replica
Context:
"'This was the Internet of its day — at least as influential as the iPhone,’ said Gabriel de Montmollin, the director of the Museum of the Reformation, toying with the replica of Johann Gutenberg’s great invention." - Historical Feature
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Replica" refers to an exact or close copy of an original object, often created for display, study, or preservation. In this context, the museum director is interacting with a replica of Gutenberg’s printing press—an object that revolutionized the world by making books widely accessible. Using a replica allows people to engage with history firsthand without endangering the original artifact.
Meaning: An exact or close copy of something, especially for exhibition or educational purposes (Noun)
Pronunciation: REP-li-kuh
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Italian *replica* (reply, repetition), from Latin *replicare*, meaning "to fold back, repeat"
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Replica" is often used in museums, film props, and collectibles. It's a useful term to describe a copy that maintains the original form but not necessarily the same material or age. Think of it as a respectful imitation made to inform or impress.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: copy, reproduction, duplicate, imitation, facsimile
Antonyms: original, prototype, one-of-a-kind, authentic
Usage Examples:
- The museum displayed a replica of an ancient Egyptian sarcophagus.
- She bought a replica of the Eiffel Tower as a souvenir.
- Engineers built a working replica of Leonardo da Vinci’s flying machine.
- Although it was a replica, the craftsmanship was stunningly accurate.
Cultural Reference:
In the movie *Jurassic Park*, scientists attempt to replicate dinosaurs from preserved DNA—a fictional twist on the concept of replicas in science. - Popular Science Fiction
Think About It:
Can a replica ever carry the same value—emotional or cultural—as the original? Why or why not?
Quick Activity:
Look around your room and find one object that is a replica or imitation. Describe what it copies and how close it feels to the original.
Memory Tip:
Think of “replica” as “replay” + “copy” — it plays again in a different form but looks almost the same!
Real-World Application:
Replicas are essential in education, museums, film production, and science—allowing safe, affordable, and accessible interaction with historically or scientifically important objects.
WORD-3: Pamphlets
Context:
"'This was the Internet of its day — at least as influential as the iPhone,’ said Gabriel de Montmollin, the director of the Museum of the Reformation, toying with the replica of Johann Gutenberg’s great invention." - Historical Commentary
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Pamphlets" are small booklets or brochures containing information or arguments about a single subject, often used to educate, persuade, or inform the public. In the era of the printing press, especially during the Reformation, pamphlets became a powerful tool to spread new ideas and challenge authority, much like tweets or blog posts today. Gutenberg’s invention made the mass production of pamphlets possible, which helped trigger widespread societal change.
Meaning: Small, unbound printed booklets used to spread information or ideas (Noun – plural)
Pronunciation: PAM-flits
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Middle French *pamphilet*, from Latin *Pamphilus*, a popular Latin love poem often printed in short format
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Pamphlets were the social media of their time. Short, shareable, and powerful—used by reformers, revolutionaries, and educators to challenge ideas and influence the public. Knowing this word helps us understand how communication evolved with technology.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: booklet, leaflet, brochure, flyer, handout
Antonyms: tome, volume, encyclopedia, hardcover
Usage Examples:
- The activists handed out pamphlets explaining their cause.
- Pamphlets were distributed during the Reformation to challenge Church doctrines.
- She picked up a health pamphlet at the clinic for more information.
- Gutenberg’s press made the widespread printing of pamphlets possible for the first time in history.
Cultural Reference:
Martin Luther’s *95 Theses* spread rapidly across Europe thanks to printed pamphlets—sparking the Protestant Reformation. - European History Archives
Think About It:
How do today’s digital messages (like tweets or posts) compare to pamphlets of the past in terms of influence and reach?
Quick Activity:
Create a short pamphlet headline about a cause or idea you care about. What would the first line say to grab attention?
Memory Tip:
Pamphlets = Paper + Message → small papers with a big message!
Real-World Application:
Pamphlets are still used today in public health campaigns, political activism, and education—proving their relevance even in the digital age as portable, direct communication tools.
WORD-4: Narcissistic
Context:
"It made us more narcissistic — here's more of me doing cool stuff — and it unleashed an army of awful trolls." - Social Commentary
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Narcissistic" describes a personality or behavior that is excessively self-centered, focused on one’s own appearance, achievements, or importance, often at the expense of empathy for others. In the given context, the speaker critiques how certain technologies or social media trends have encouraged people to become more self-absorbed, showcasing their lives for attention rather than connection.
Meaning: Having an excessive interest in or admiration for oneself (Adjective)
Pronunciation: nar-suh-SIS-tik
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Greek mythology: *Narcissus* was a youth who fell in love with his own reflection; from Latin *narcissus* + *-istic*
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This is a word you’ll hear often in psychological and cultural discussions. While it originally referred to a personality disorder, it's now widely used to describe anyone overly obsessed with themselves—especially on social media. Be cautious, though—it can carry a strong negative tone.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: self-absorbed, vain, egotistical, self-centered, conceited
Antonyms: humble, selfless, modest, altruistic
Usage Examples:
- His narcissistic attitude made it hard for him to form genuine relationships.
- The app seemed to encourage narcissistic behavior, with everyone constantly posting selfies.
- She viewed his constant need for praise as narcissistic and draining.
- The novel explores the narcissistic tendencies of celebrity culture.
Cultural Reference:
The term comes from the Greek myth of Narcissus, who fell in love with his own reflection and wasted away admiring it—leading to the modern use of “narcissistic” in psychology and pop culture. - Greek Mythology
Think About It:
Has social media made society more narcissistic—or simply more expressive?
Quick Activity:
List three behaviors that could be considered narcissistic. Now, rewrite each to show a more balanced or empathetic alternative.
Memory Tip:
Think of *Narcissus* admiring his reflection in a pond—“narcissistic” = obsessed with oneself, just like him.
Real-World Application:
Understanding narcissistic behavior is important in psychology, leadership, relationships, and digital culture, where self-promotion and ego can influence how people interact and communicate.
WORD-5: Unleashed
Context:
"It made us more narcissistic — here's more of me doing cool stuff — and it unleashed an army of awful trolls." - Social Commentary
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Unleashed" refers to releasing something powerful, intense, or uncontrollable into action. In this context, the word vividly conveys how a tool or platform (likely social media) gave free rein to online trolls—people who intentionally provoke or harass others—resulting in widespread negativity. It suggests that once contained or dormant behavior was suddenly allowed to spread freely and destructively.
Meaning: Released or set loose something powerful or harmful (Verb – past tense of “unleash”)
Pronunciation: un-LEESHT
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Middle English *lesche* (a leash); originally used for letting animals loose, now used metaphorically
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Unleashed" is often used in dramatic contexts—think storms, emotions, wars, or online mobs. It brings energy and force to your language. Use it when something powerful breaks free and impacts the world around it.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: released, triggered, set free, launched, loosed
Antonyms: restrained, contained, suppressed, held back
Usage Examples:
- The announcement unleashed a wave of protests across the city.
- Social media unleashed new forms of communication—and conflict.
- The film’s final scene unleashed a storm of emotions in the audience.
- He accidentally unleashed his frustration during the meeting.
Cultural Reference:
In superhero and disaster movies, the phrase “unleash the power” is commonly used to depict uncontrollable forces being set into motion—symbolic of chaos or transformation. - Pop Culture Tropes
Think About It:
What responsibilities come with creating or using platforms that can unleash powerful forces—positive or negative?
Quick Activity:
Complete this sentence: “When I unleashed my ____________, I was surprised by the result.” Reflect on the impact of your action.
Memory Tip:
Picture a dog straining at the leash—and then being unleashed to run wild. That’s the energy this word brings!
Real-World Application:
“Unleashed” is frequently used in news, politics, and media commentary to describe events or technologies that rapidly release intense change—useful for impactful writing and discussion.
WORD-6: Daydreaming
Context:
"We no longer have the patience to sit through a baseball game without that reach to the pocket. And one more casualty of Apple selling more than a billion phones in a decade's time: daydreaming has become a lost art." - Tech & Culture Article
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Daydreaming" refers to the act of letting your mind wander away from the present moment into thoughts, fantasies, or imagined scenarios. It often happens when you're awake but not actively focused, such as during idle time or boredom. In this context, the author laments how modern smartphone use has crowded out quiet, reflective moments once filled with imagination and mental escape—making daydreaming feel like a "lost art."
Meaning: The act of thinking about pleasant things, fantasies, or possibilities instead of paying attention to the present (Noun / Verb – gerund form)
Pronunciation: DAY-dreem-ing
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: Formed from "day" + "dream"; first used in the 19th century to describe pleasant thoughts during waking hours
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Daydreaming" isn't just idle imagination—it’s where creativity often begins. Some of the world’s greatest ideas started as wandering thoughts. While often dismissed as unproductive, it actually nurtures mental clarity, problem-solving, and emotional balance.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: fantasizing, woolgathering, imagining, drifting off
Antonyms: focusing, concentrating, attending, paying attention
Usage Examples:
- She was caught daydreaming during the meeting and missed the instructions.
- As a child, he spent hours daydreaming about space travel.
- Daydreaming often leads to creative breakthroughs in writing and design.
- Without our phones, we might go back to simple joys like walking or daydreaming.
Cultural Reference:
The classic film *The Secret Life of Walter Mitty* is centered around a man whose rich daydreams help him escape a mundane life—blurring the lines between fantasy and reality. - Film & Literature
Think About It:
When was the last time you truly allowed yourself to daydream—and what did it reveal about your inner thoughts?
Quick Activity:
Set a timer for 5 minutes. Close your eyes, let your thoughts wander, and then jot down anything interesting that came to mind. That’s your daydream!
Memory Tip:
“Day” + “dreaming” — Think of drifting into a mini-dream while wide awake, often staring out the window or lost in thought.
Real-World Application:
Daydreaming plays a role in creativity, stress relief, and even future planning. Many artists, inventors, and entrepreneurs credit their best ideas to moments when they let their minds wander.
WORD-7: Attic
Context:
"Not long after Steve Jobs introduced his iPhone, he said the bound book was probably headed for history's attic." - Tech Commentary
Explanatory Paragraph:
An "attic" is the space just below the roof of a house, often used for storage. In this metaphorical context, "history's attic" refers to a place where things from the past are stored and forgotten. Steve Jobs was suggesting that physical books might become obsolete and gather dust as digital devices take over. It's a poetic way to express the fading relevance of traditional objects or ideas in the face of technological progress.
Meaning: A space just below the roof of a house, typically used for storage (Noun)
Pronunciation: AT-ik
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *Atticus* (of Attica, a region of Greece), originally referring to a decorative architectural style used in upper sections of buildings
Prashant Sir's Notes:
While "attic" literally refers to a dusty storage space above the ceiling, it’s often used metaphorically in writing. "History's attic" means a forgotten corner of the past. Great word for describing both literal and symbolic spaces where things are stored away—physically or culturally.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: loft, garret, upper room, crawl space
Antonyms: basement, cellar, ground floor (in spatial terms); spotlight, mainstream (in metaphorical terms)
Usage Examples:
- She found a box of old photographs in her grandmother’s attic.
- Many forgotten ideas from the past are gathering dust in history’s attic.
- We converted the attic into a cozy reading room.
- That outdated mindset belongs in the attic of history.
Cultural Reference:
In literature and film, attics often symbolize hidden memories, secrets, or forgotten treasures—like in *Jane Eyre*, where a character is literally hidden in the attic. - Classic Literature Symbolism
Think About It:
What personal or societal items do you think deserve to stay in the attic, and which should be brought back into the light?
Quick Activity:
Imagine you discover a locked trunk in an old attic. Write a sentence about what you hope is inside—and what it tells you about the past.
Memory Tip:
Think of “attic” as *a* place *at the top* where you *tuck* away old things — attic = A.T.T.I.C.
Real-World Application:
In writing, journalism, and speeches, “attic” is a powerful metaphor for forgotten traditions or outdated tools. Understanding its figurative use helps in interpreting deeper meanings in modern discourse.
WORD-8: Merely
Context:
"But I'm not sure if the world changed for the better with the iPhone — as it did with the printing press — or merely changed." - Unknown Source
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Merely” is a word used to emphasize how small, unimportant, or minimal something is. It often plays a subtle yet powerful role in communication, downplaying an action or condition to its most basic form. In the quoted sentence, the author contrasts meaningful change with simple change — suggesting that while the iPhone changed the world, that change might not be inherently positive or transformative in the way the printing press was.
Meaning: Only; just (Adverb)
Pronunciation: MEER-lee
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: Derived from Middle English *merely*, from Old French *mer*, meaning “pure” or “undiluted.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Use “merely” when you want to diminish the magnitude or importance of something. It helps in sharpening contrasts and adding nuance to arguments or reflections.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: only, simply, just, purely, solely
Antonyms: significantly, substantially, meaningfully, notably
Usage Examples:
- He’s not a villain — merely misunderstood.
- They’re not enemies, merely rivals on the field.
- She wasn’t angry, merely disappointed.
- The comment was not offensive, merely careless.
Cultural Reference:
"There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you." — This quote by Maya Angelou reflects how we often *merely* survive instead of truly living. - Cultural Reflection
Think About It:
Can something be considered a success if it *merely* changes the world without improving it?
Quick Activity:
Write three sentences where the use of "merely" changes the tone or implication of the sentence.
Memory Tip:
“Merely” sounds like “MEER-ly”—think of a meerkat doing something small or unimportant. It’s *merely* standing there!
Real-World Application:
In debates, essays, and even emails, “merely” can be used to soften statements or downplay concerns tactfully, making your communication more precise and polite.
WORD-9: Enlightened
Context:
"...the Geneva museum makes a strong case that the printing press opened more minds than anything else… it's hard to imagine the French or American revolutions without those enlightened voices in print." - Historical Commentary
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Enlightened" describes a person, idea, or time that is guided by reason, knowledge, and a forward-thinking mindset. In the sentence above, it refers to the progressive, thoughtful thinkers—writers, philosophers, and revolutionaries—whose printed works challenged old systems and inspired revolutionary change. These "enlightened voices" played a key role in shaping modern ideas about freedom, democracy, and human rights.
Meaning: Having or showing a rational, well-informed, and progressive outlook (Adjective)
Pronunciation: en-LYTE-nd
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *illuminare* (to illuminate), via French *éclairer*; the term is linked with the 18th-century intellectual movement "The Enlightenment"
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Enlightened" is a powerful adjective often used to describe people who think critically, challenge outdated norms, and work toward progress. It has strong ties to the Enlightenment era, which emphasized reason, science, and individual rights over blind tradition.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: informed, progressive, aware, wise, rational
Antonyms: ignorant, backward, unenlightened, prejudiced
Usage Examples:
- The philosopher was known for his enlightened views on human rights.
- Enlightened leaders strive to serve their people through reason and justice.
- The Enlightenment produced many enlightened voices who challenged monarchy and tradition.
- She appreciated his enlightened perspective on gender equality.
Cultural Reference:
The *Age of Enlightenment* (17th–18th century) was a European intellectual movement that emphasized reason, science, and individual rights—fueling revolutions and democratic ideals. - World History Archives
Think About It:
What does it mean to be truly "enlightened" in today's digital and globalized world?
Quick Activity:
Name one historical or modern figure you consider "enlightened" and list one of their ideas that made a difference.
Memory Tip:
“Enlightened” comes from “light” — think of someone who brings light into darkness through ideas and understanding.
Real-World Application:
Being enlightened today means staying informed, questioning norms, and making decisions based on knowledge and empathy—qualities vital in leadership, education, and civic life.
WORD-10: Suppression
Context:
"But the failure of the Arab Spring and the continued suppression of ideas in North Korea, China and Iran, has not borne that out." - Global Affairs Commentary
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Suppression" refers to the act of forcibly putting an end to something, especially thoughts, speech, or actions that challenge authority or norms. In the context above, it highlights how authoritarian governments continue to silence dissent and restrict free expression, despite the hope for reform that movements like the Arab Spring once inspired. Suppression often involves censorship, imprisonment, or violence to keep opposing voices from being heard.
Meaning: The act of preventing or restraining something from being expressed, known, or developed (Noun)
Pronunciation: suh-PRESH-un
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *suppressio*, from *supprimere*, meaning “to press down” or “subdue”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Suppression" is often used in political, social, and psychological contexts. Whether it’s the suppression of ideas, emotions, or uprisings, it always implies force or control. Look for it when reading about censorship, oppression, or authoritarianism—it signals conflict beneath the surface.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: censorship, restraint, repression, silencing, stifling
Antonyms: expression, freedom, liberation, encouragement
Usage Examples:
- The suppression of protests led to international condemnation.
- Freedom of speech cannot flourish under constant suppression.
- The regime used fear and surveillance to ensure the suppression of dissent.
- Emotional suppression can lead to long-term psychological issues.
Cultural Reference:
In George Orwell's *1984*, the suppression of independent thought is symbolized by the oppressive regime’s control over language and history—"thoughtcrime" is punishable by death. - Dystopian Literature
Think About It:
Is it ever justified to suppress certain ideas or expressions in the interest of national security or public order?
Quick Activity:
Write two sentences: one describing a form of suppression you've read about in the news, and another describing a situation where suppression might be necessary.
Memory Tip:
“Suppression” = “pressing down” — picture pushing something under water so it can't rise to the surface.
Real-World Application:
Understanding suppression is vital in politics, media, psychology, and human rights. Recognizing how and why suppression happens helps us protect freedom, both in society and within ourselves.
WORD-3: Suppression
Context:
"But the failure of the Arab Spring and the continued suppression of ideas in North Korea, China and Iran, has not borne that out." - Global Affairs Commentary
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Suppression" refers to the act of forcibly putting an end to something, especially thoughts, speech, or actions that challenge authority or norms. In the context above, it highlights how authoritarian governments continue to silence dissent and restrict free expression, despite the hope for reform that movements like the Arab Spring once inspired. Suppression often involves censorship, imprisonment, or violence to keep opposing voices from being heard.
Meaning: The act of preventing or restraining something from being expressed, known, or developed (Noun)
Pronunciation: suh-PRESH-un
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *suppressio*, from *supprimere*, meaning “to press down” or “subdue”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Suppression" is often used in political, social, and psychological contexts. Whether it’s the suppression of ideas, emotions, or uprisings, it always implies force or control. Look for it when reading about censorship, oppression, or authoritarianism—it signals conflict beneath the surface.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: censorship, restraint, repression, silencing, stifling
Antonyms: expression, freedom, liberation, encouragement
Usage Examples:
- The suppression of protests led to international condemnation.
- Freedom of speech cannot flourish under constant suppression.
- The regime used fear and surveillance to ensure the suppression of dissent.
- Emotional suppression can lead to long-term psychological issues.
Cultural Reference:
In George Orwell's *1984*, the suppression of independent thought is symbolized by the oppressive regime’s control over language and history—"thoughtcrime" is punishable by death. - Dystopian Literature
Think About It:
Is it ever justified to suppress certain ideas or expressions in the interest of national security or public order?
Quick Activity:
Write two sentences: one describing a form of suppression you've read about in the news, and another describing a situation where suppression might be necessary.
Memory Tip:
“Suppression” = “pressing down” — picture pushing something under water so it can't rise to the surface.
Real-World Application:
Understanding suppression is vital in politics, media, psychology, and human rights. Recognizing how and why suppression happens helps us protect freedom, both in society and within ourselves.
