✨ 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:
- mice
- spontaneously
- Bequeath
- rapid
- Trajectory
- Metaphor
- Phenotype
- offspring
- brawny mastiff
WORD 1: Mice
Context:
(Inferred example: “The lab used genetically modified mice to study the effects of the new drug.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Mice" is the plural form of "mouse" and refers to small rodents commonly found in a variety of environments. They are known for their sharp senses, agility, and high reproductive rate. Mice are used extensively in scientific research due to their genetic similarity to humans and are also central figures in literature and cultural symbolism—often representing fear, timidity, or cleverness. In modern language, “mice” can also metaphorically refer to those who are quiet or overlooked.
Meaning: Small rodents with pointed snouts, large ears, and long tails (Noun – plural of "mouse")
Pronunciation: myss
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Old English *mūs* (plural *mȳs*), related to German *Maus*, from Proto-Indo-European *mūs-* (“mouse”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Mice” may seem like a simple word, but it appears in both academic (biology, medical research) and literary contexts. It's a useful plural noun for learners to remember since it follows an irregular plural pattern (mouse → mice). Also explore how it’s used metaphorically in idioms or fables.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: rodents, vermin, field mice (contextual)
Antonyms: cats, predators (contextual), large animals
Usage Examples:
- The kitchen was invaded by mice during the winter months.
- Scientists use mice in laboratories because they share a high percentage of human genes.
- The mice scurried into the walls as soon as the light was turned on.
- In stories, mice are often portrayed as clever or mischievous creatures.
Cultural Reference:
In the classic fable *The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse*, mice are used to explore the contrast between urban and rural lifestyles. In pop culture, Mickey Mouse remains the most iconic mouse of all time. – Fables & Animation
Think About It:
Why do you think mice are so commonly used in both scientific research and storytelling?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “mice” literally (as animals), and another using it metaphorically (e.g., "They acted like mice in front of authority").
Memory Tip:
Remember: one *mouse*, many *mice*—just like one *louse*, many *lice* (irregular plurals).
Real-World Application:
“Mice” are key to biological research, pest control industries, storytelling, and idioms in English. Recognizing both its scientific and metaphorical use expands your language flexibility.
WORD 2: Spontaneously
Context:
(Inferred example: “The crowd spontaneously erupted into applause when the performer returned to the stage.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Spontaneously" is an adverb used to describe something that happens naturally, suddenly, or without external prompting or planning. It implies a lack of premeditation and often conveys emotion, surprise, or instinct. Whether in human behavior (like spontaneous laughter), chemical reactions (spontaneous combustion), or nature (spontaneous growth), the word emphasizes immediate, unforced occurrence.
Meaning: Occurring without planning, external force, or deliberate action; naturally and suddenly (Adverb)
Pronunciation: spon-TAY-nee-us-lee
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Late Latin *spontaneus* (“of one’s free will”) + *-ly* (adverbial suffix), meaning “done willingly, naturally”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Spontaneously” is a great word for narrative and descriptive writing. It brings energy and life to actions. Use it to describe emotional responses, natural events, or instinctive decisions. In science, it also has precise uses—especially in chemistry and biology—so it fits both creative and technical contexts.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: instinctively, impulsively, naturally, suddenly, unplanned
Antonyms: deliberately, intentionally, carefully, methodically
Usage Examples:
- She laughed spontaneously at the unexpected joke.
- The reaction occurred spontaneously when the two chemicals were mixed.
- The children began dancing spontaneously to the music in the street.
- Spontaneously, he offered to help, surprising everyone in the room.
Cultural Reference:
In improvisational theatre, actors are trained to react spontaneously—building scenes and humor in the moment without scripts, emphasizing creativity and trust. – Performing Arts & Improv Culture
Think About It:
Can spontaneity lead to more authentic experiences—or does it sometimes cause regret when we act too quickly?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “spontaneously” to describe a joyful moment, and another to describe a scientific or natural event.
Memory Tip:
“Spontaneously” = *spontaneous* + *-ly* → think of something bursting forth with no plan—like laughter or a wildflower bloom.
Real-World Application:
“Spontaneously” is widely used in storytelling, psychology, science, and behavior studies to describe unplanned or natural reactions and events.
WORD 3: Epigenetics
Context:
(Inferred example: “Recent studies in epigenetics suggest that environmental factors can affect gene expression without altering the DNA sequence itself.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Epigenetics" is the study of how external or environmental factors can change the way our genes function—without altering the actual DNA sequence. These changes can turn genes on or off and can be influenced by diet, stress, toxins, and lifestyle. Epigenetic changes are sometimes reversible and can even be passed down to future generations. This field is revolutionizing how we understand heredity, disease, and human development.
Meaning: The study of heritable changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the DNA sequence (Noun)
Pronunciation: ep-ih-juh-NET-iks
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Advanced
Etymology: From Greek *epi-* (“above” or “on”) + *genetics* → meaning “above genetics” or “in addition to genetic code”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Epigenetics” is an advanced scientific term ideal for essays on biology, medicine, psychology, or public health. Use it when discussing the interaction between genes and the environment. It’s a powerful concept that shows genes are not destiny—our lifestyle choices and surroundings matter too.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: gene regulation science, molecular heredity (contextual)
Antonyms: genetic determinism, unregulated inheritance (contextual)
Usage Examples:
- Epigenetics helps explain how identical twins can develop different health outcomes.
- Environmental stress can lead to epigenetic changes that affect mental health.
- Researchers are exploring how epigenetics might unlock new treatments for cancer and diabetes.
- The field of epigenetics is reshaping our understanding of nature versus nurture.
Cultural Reference:
Popular science books like *The Epigenetics Revolution* by Nessa Carey have made complex epigenetic concepts accessible, sparking public interest in how lifestyle affects genetic health. – Contemporary Science Writing
Think About It:
If our choices and environment can influence gene expression, how should this affect our approach to healthcare and education?
Quick Activity:
Write a short sentence explaining how one lifestyle factor (e.g., stress, diet, sleep) could impact health through epigenetics.
Memory Tip:
“Epi-” means *above*, and “genetics” means *genes* → Epigenetics = factors *above* genes that *influence* how they behave.
Real-World Application:
“Epigenetics” is crucial in modern biology, medicine, and psychology. It informs research on cancer, mental health, prenatal development, and how lifestyle choices affect long-term well-being.
WORD 4: Bequeath
Context:
(Inferred example: “In his will, he chose to bequeath his rare book collection to the university library.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Bequeath" is a formal verb meaning to leave something to someone through a will or as a legacy, typically after one’s death. While it originally referred to physical possessions, it can also be used more broadly to describe the passing down of ideas, values, or traditions. The word is often found in legal documents, historical texts, and formal writing. It conveys the idea of intention, legacy, and a connection between generations.
Meaning: To leave something to someone in a will; to pass something on as a legacy (Verb)
Pronunciation: bih-KWEETH
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Old English *becweðan* (“to declare or express in words, especially in a will”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Bequeath” is a classic word to use in formal essays, wills, or philosophical writing. It’s useful when discussing inheritance—of both property and principles. It adds a dignified tone and is ideal when writing about legacy, cultural transmission, or historical figures.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: leave, pass on, bestow, hand down, endow
Antonyms: withhold, retain, disinherit, take
Usage Examples:
- She bequeathed her estate to her grandchildren, as stated in her will.
- The poet hoped to bequeath his ideas to future generations through his writings.
- He bequeathed his love of nature to his children through weekend hikes and stories.
- The foundation was bequeathed a large donation from a former trustee.
Cultural Reference:
In Shakespeare’s *Julius Caesar*, Caesar’s will bequeaths his land and wealth to the Roman citizens—an act that dramatically influences public opinion. – Classic Literature & Political Power
Think About It:
What values, ideas, or traditions would you want to bequeath to future generations—and why?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “bequeath” to describe a personal or cultural legacy (not just material items).
Memory Tip:
“Bequeath” = think *be-QUIET* → what you *quietly leave behind* for others in your absence.
Real-World Application:
“Bequeath” is used in legal, literary, and formal writing—especially when discussing wills, inheritance, historical figures, or passing down cultural heritage.
WORD 5: Rapid
Context:
(Inferred example: “The rapid advancement of technology is reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Rapid" is an adjective that describes something that happens very quickly or in a short amount of time. It often implies speed, urgency, or acceleration, and is commonly used to describe growth, change, movement, or progress. Whether referring to a person’s heartbeat, a company’s expansion, or climate change, the word adds a strong sense of velocity or momentum to the description.
Meaning: Happening or moving quickly; fast or swift (Adjective)
Pronunciation: RAP-id
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *rapidus* (“seizing quickly, swift”), from *rapere* (“to seize, snatch”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Rapid” is a crisp, powerful adjective to use instead of the more generic “fast.” It works well in both academic and creative writing. Use it in contexts involving measurable change—economic growth, technological advancement, or emotional escalation. It frequently collocates with words like *development*, *decline*, *rise*, and *response*.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: swift, quick, fast, brisk, accelerated
Antonyms: slow, gradual, sluggish, delayed
Usage Examples:
- The rapid response of emergency services saved many lives.
- There has been a rapid increase in global temperatures over the past century.
- Her rapid recovery from surgery surprised everyone.
- Social media allows for the rapid spread of both information and misinformation.
Cultural Reference:
In the tech world, “rapid prototyping” refers to quickly building and testing product versions, a key principle in agile development and innovation culture. – Product Design & Software Development
Think About It:
Does the rapid pace of modern life improve our efficiency—or reduce our ability to think deeply and reflect?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “rapid” in a scientific context, and another in a personal or emotional context (e.g., “a rapid change of heart”).
Memory Tip:
Think of *rapids* in a river—fast, powerful, and unstoppable. That’s what “rapid” means: moving with great speed.
Real-World Application:
“Rapid” is used across journalism, science, medicine, technology, and education. It helps express speed in data, systems, physical change, or emotional reactions.
WORD 6: Trajectory
Context:
(Inferred example: “The pandemic altered the trajectory of global economies in unexpected ways.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Trajectory" is a noun that originally refers to the curved path an object follows through space after it has been thrown or propelled, such as a missile or a ball. Over time, it has developed a powerful metaphorical use to describe the course or development of something over time—like a career, an idea, or a trend. It’s commonly used in academic, scientific, economic, and personal contexts to suggest direction and future outcome.
Meaning: The path or course followed by an object or a process, especially over time (Noun)
Pronunciation: truh-JEK-tuh-ree
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *trajectoria* (“throwing across”), from *traicere* – *trans* (“across”) + *jacere* (“to throw”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Trajectory” is a great word when you want to describe a journey, direction, or growth pattern—whether it’s literal, emotional, academic, or societal. It adds depth and clarity to analytical writing. You’ll often find it in science, economics, business strategy, and even literature to describe the arc of change over time.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: path, course, route, direction, arc
Antonyms: standstill, stagnation, reversal, deviation (contextual)
Usage Examples:
- The rocket followed a precise trajectory calculated by NASA engineers.
- Her career trajectory shifted after she moved into the nonprofit sector.
- Analysts are closely monitoring the trajectory of inflation rates.
- The character’s emotional trajectory forms the heart of the novel’s plot.
Cultural Reference:
In space missions like those by SpaceX and NASA, *trajectory planning* is a critical aspect of launch success—highlighting the word’s technical roots and strategic applications. – Aerospace & Innovation
Think About It:
Are we fully in control of our life’s trajectory—or are we reacting to external forces like gravity influences a rocket?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “trajectory” to describe either a personal journey, a trend in society, or a business strategy.
Memory Tip:
Think of *trajectory* as “track + vector” → the direction something is moving along a path over time.
Real-World Application:
“Trajectory” is used in science, technology, business strategy, politics, and personal development. It helps describe progress and direction clearly and with precision.
WORD 7: Metaphor
Context:
(Inferred example: “The author uses the storm as a metaphor for the character’s inner turmoil.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Metaphor" is a figure of speech in which one thing is described as if it were something else, without using “like” or “as.” It creates a direct comparison by transferring qualities from one object or idea to another, enriching language with deeper meaning, imagery, and symbolism. Metaphors are a key element in poetry, literature, public speaking, and even everyday conversation, helping readers or listeners visualize abstract ideas or emotions more vividly.
Meaning: A figure of speech that describes something as being something else to suggest similarity or symbolic meaning (Noun)
Pronunciation: MET-uh-for
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Greek *metaphora* (“transfer”), from *meta-* (“beyond”) + *pherein* (“to carry”) — literally “a carrying over”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Metaphor” is one of the most powerful tools in writing. It goes beyond literal language to create emotion, symbolism, and clarity. Use it in literary analysis, speeches, and creative writing. Understand the difference between metaphor and simile—similes use “like” or “as,” but metaphors are more direct and bold.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: symbol, analogy, comparison, figurative expression
Antonyms: literal statement, direct description, factual language
Usage Examples:
- Her voice was music to his ears — a metaphor expressing beauty and emotional effect.
- The essay uses the metaphor of a journey to describe personal growth.
- Calling time a thief is a metaphor that shows how quickly life passes by.
- In the poem, the broken mirror is a metaphor for lost identity.
Cultural Reference:
Shakespeare’s famous line “All the world’s a stage” from *As You Like It* is a classic metaphor that compares life to a theatrical performance. – English Literature
Think About It:
How do metaphors shape the way we think and feel about experiences—and why do they often communicate more than literal facts?
Quick Activity:
Write a metaphor for one of the following: time, love, fear, or success. Avoid using “like” or “as.”
Memory Tip:
Think of *meta* = beyond + *phor* = to carry → a metaphor *carries meaning beyond* the literal words.
Real-World Application:
“Metaphor” is essential in literature, advertising, political speeches, and everyday language. Understanding metaphors improves reading comprehension, persuasive writing, and creative expression.
WORD 8: Phenotype
Context:
(Inferred example: “Although the twins shared the same genes, their phenotypes were noticeably different due to environmental factors.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Phenotype" refers to the observable traits or characteristics of an organism—such as height, eye color, behavior, or disease susceptibility—which result from the interaction between its genetic makeup (genotype) and the environment. While genes provide the blueprint, the phenotype is the actual expression of those instructions, influenced by both inheritance and external conditions. The concept is central to genetics, evolution, and developmental biology.
Meaning: The set of observable traits of an organism resulting from the interaction of its genotype and the environment (Noun)
Pronunciation: FEE-nuh-type
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Greek *phainein* (“to show”) + *typos* (“type”) → literally “showing type”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Phenotype” is a must-know word for biology and genetics. Use it when explaining how traits are influenced by both DNA and environment. Pair it with “genotype” to highlight how genes are expressed in real life. Remember: phenotype is what you can *see*, while genotype is what’s *invisible* in the DNA.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: observable traits, physical characteristics, expressed traits
Antonyms: genotype, genetic code, unexpressed traits
Usage Examples:
- The phenotype of an individual can be influenced by diet, lifestyle, and environment.
- Despite identical genotypes, the two plants had different phenotypes due to varying sunlight exposure.
- Eye color is a classic example of a human phenotype.
- Scientists study phenotypes to understand how genes are expressed under different conditions.
Cultural Reference:
In the Human Genome Project and related research, scientists distinguished between genotype (DNA code) and phenotype (expression), helping identify how genes influence disease, personality, and performance. – Genetics & Medicine
Think About It:
How do our environments shape the expression of our genetic potential—and what does that mean for fairness and opportunity?
Quick Activity:
List three phenotypic traits in humans and describe how environment might influence each.
Memory Tip:
“Pheno” = *to show* → phenotype = what your genes *show* on the outside.
Real-World Application:
“Phenotype” is used in biology, genetics, agriculture, and medicine to study how traits are expressed and how to improve health, crops, or species adaptation.
WORD 9: Offspring
Context:
(Inferred example: “The offspring of genetically modified plants showed increased resistance to pests.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Offspring" is a noun used to refer to the children, young, or descendants of a person, animal, or even a plant. In biology, it describes the result of reproduction. While it most commonly refers to literal children, it can also be used metaphorically to refer to outcomes or creations—such as the offspring of an idea or movement. The word is neutral in tone and is used widely in both scientific and literary contexts.
Meaning: A person’s or animal’s young; the product of reproduction (Noun)
Pronunciation: AWF-spring
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Old English *ofspring* (meaning “descendant”), from *of-* (“away, off”) + *springan* (“to spring”) → literally “that which springs off”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Offspring” is a scientific yet elegant word to use in biology essays, genetics discussions, or literary descriptions. It's especially useful when describing heredity, family lines, or natural reproduction. You can also use it metaphorically to describe the results of actions or ideas.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: children, descendants, young, progeny, heirs
Antonyms: ancestors, forebears (opposite in lineage)
Usage Examples:
- The cat kept a close eye on her newborn offspring.
- Plants produce offspring through both sexual and asexual reproduction.
- Some traits are passed genetically from parents to their offspring.
- The movement was the offspring of decades of social frustration and political unrest.
Cultural Reference:
Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution focuses heavily on the survival and adaptation of offspring through natural selection—those best suited to their environment reproduce more successfully. – Evolutionary Biology
Think About It:
How do both nature (genetics) and nurture (environment) influence the development of offspring in humans and animals?
Quick Activity:
Write one sentence using “offspring” in a biological sense and another using it metaphorically (e.g., “The program was the offspring of years of research.”)
Memory Tip:
Think of “offspring” as what “springs off” from a parent—offspring = outcome of reproduction.
Real-World Application:
“Offspring” is used in biology, genetics, family studies, legal contexts (inheritance), and even metaphorically in literature and social science to describe the product or result of origin.
WORD 10 : Brawny Mastiff
Context:
(Inferred example: “A brawny mastiff guarded the entrance, its deep growl enough to halt any intruder.”)
Explanatory Paragraph:
The phrase "brawny mastiff" combines a vivid adjective and a powerful noun to paint a clear image of strength and intimidation. "Brawny" means muscular and physically strong, while "mastiff" refers to a large, powerful breed of dog known for its protective instincts. Together, the phrase suggests a creature of both brute strength and noble watchfulness—often used to symbolize guardianship, loyalty, or fearsome presence in literature and storytelling.
Meaning: A large, muscular dog—typically a mastiff breed—symbolizing strength, protection, and physical power (Noun Phrase)
Pronunciation: BRAW-nee MAS-tiff
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic (figurative richness)
Etymology: “Brawny” from Middle English *brawny* (muscular), and “mastiff” from Old French *mastin*, meaning "tame" or "house dog," from Latin *mansuetus* (“gentle, tame”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Brawny mastiff” is a beautiful phrase that blends vivid description with literary tone. It’s perfect for creative writing, metaphors, and character symbolism. Use it when describing not just animals, but any protective or intimidating force. Think of how the phrase can convey power through imagery without overstatement.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: powerful guard dog, muscular canine, robust protector
Antonyms: scrawny pup, delicate dog, timid pet (contextual)
Usage Examples:
- The brawny mastiff stood like a statue, eyes fixed on the intruder.
- In the novel, the brawny mastiff represented the family’s last line of defense.
- He looked like a brawny mastiff himself—silent, watchful, ready to strike.
- The brawny mastiff barked once, and the crowd parted instinctively.
Cultural Reference:
In English literature, dogs like mastiffs often symbolize loyalty, guardianship, and brute force—Shakespeare and Dickens both used canine imagery to evoke mood and character traits. – Literary Symbolism
Think About It:
Can strength and intimidation—like that of a brawny mastiff—also coexist with gentleness and loyalty?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence or short description using the phrase “brawny mastiff” in a metaphorical way (e.g., describing a person or institution).
Memory Tip:
Picture a *mastiff* — huge, muscular, alert — and add “brawny” to amplify that image. Think “bodyguard dog.”
Real-World Application:
The phrase “brawny mastiff” is ideal for narrative writing, poetry, or metaphorical language. It adds vivid imagery and symbolic strength to both animal descriptions and human character portrayals.
