✨ 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:
- Misdemeanours
- Unintended
- Paramount
- Endemic
- widespread
- Imperatives
- Transactional
- Subtle
- Fixation
- Short-termism
WORD 1: Misdemeanours
Context:
“He was charged with multiple misdemeanours, including trespassing and petty theft.”
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Misdemeanours" is the British spelling of "misdemeanors" (used in American English), and refers to minor offenses or less serious crimes, typically punishable by fines, community service, or short jail terms. These are contrasted with felonies, which are more serious offenses. The term is also used more loosely in everyday conversation to describe small wrongdoings or socially inappropriate behavior. While legally specific, the word also has moral and behavioral undertones in social and ethical discussions.
Meaning: Minor legal offenses or small wrongdoings (Noun – plural)
Pronunciation: MIS-duh-mee-nurz
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Middle English *mesdemeanure*, from *mis-* (wrongly) + *demeanour* (conduct or behavior)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Misdemeanours” is useful in both legal and ethical discussions. Use it in formal essays or reports dealing with justice, civic responsibility, or social behavior. It's often paired with phrases like *minor misdemeanours*, *first-time misdemeanour*, or *petty offences*. Be sure to spell it as “misdemeanours” in UK English, and “misdemeanors” in US English.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: minor offenses, infractions, violations, petty crimes, transgressions
Antonyms: felonies, major crimes, serious offenses, lawful behavior
Usage Examples:
- Most of his misdemeanours were non-violent and involved minor property damage.
- She received a warning for past misdemeanours and was placed under supervision.
- The court distinguishes between misdemeanours and felonies when deciding punishment.
- Even minor misdemeanours can affect your criminal record and job prospects.
Cultural Reference:
In legal systems like those in the UK, Canada, and the US, the distinction between misdemeanours and felonies is crucial in determining judicial outcomes, prison sentences, and civil rights like voting or employment eligibility. – Legal Systems & Criminal Justice
Think About It:
Should minor misdemeanours carry lifelong consequences, or should the justice system focus more on rehabilitation than punishment?
Quick Activity:
List three examples of misdemeanours from real life or fiction, and note how each is typically punished.
Memory Tip:
Think *mis* (wrong) + *demeanour* (behavior) → *misdemeanour* = *wrong behavior*, but not as serious as a felony.
Real-World Application:
“Misdemeanours” is used in criminal law, civic education, political debates, and ethical discussions to categorize lesser legal or moral offenses.
WORD 2: Unintended
Context:
“The new policy had several unintended consequences that negatively affected small businesses.”
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Unintended" is an adjective used to describe something that was not planned, expected, or deliberately caused. It often refers to consequences, side effects, or results that emerge unexpectedly, even when actions are taken with good intentions. The word is frequently used in discussions of policy, science, ethics, and storytelling, reminding us that not all outcomes can be predicted or controlled.
Meaning: Not planned or meant to happen; accidental or unforeseen (Adjective)
Pronunciation: un-in-TEN-did
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *intendere* (“to stretch toward, aim”), with *un-* indicating the opposite—something not aimed for or intended
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Unintended” is a very useful word for critical thinking and analytical writing. It’s especially relevant when evaluating results, policy impacts, or scientific experiments. Use it to show complexity—when actions lead to results beyond our control. Often paired with “consequences” or “effects.”
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: accidental, unplanned, unexpected, inadvertent
Antonyms: intentional, deliberate, planned, purposeful
Usage Examples:
- The unintended result of automation was widespread job loss in rural areas.
- Despite her kind words, the comment had unintended emotional effects on the audience.
- His joke led to an unintended argument between the two friends.
- History is filled with inventions that had brilliant unintended uses.
Cultural Reference:
The phrase “unintended consequences” is a key idea in sociology and economics, introduced by Robert K. Merton, to show how actions—especially by governments—can produce outcomes that were never predicted or desired. – Social Theory & Policy Studies
Think About It:
Can good intentions justify actions if they lead to harmful unintended consequences?
Quick Activity:
Write one sentence using “unintended” to describe a consequence of a scientific discovery or a social decision.
Memory Tip:
“Unintended” = *un-* (not) + *intended* → something not *aimed for* or *meant to happen*.
Real-World Application:
“Unintended” is used in policy analysis, ethics, health care, innovation, and even literature to explore outcomes that diverge from original goals or intentions.
WORD 3: Paramount
Context:
“In times of crisis, clear communication is of paramount importance.”
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Paramount" is an adjective that means 'more important than anything else' or 'supreme in rank or significance.' It is often used in formal writing or speech to highlight the utmost importance of a principle, responsibility, or objective. Whether referring to safety, integrity, or national interest, the word underscores something as the highest priority among all competing concerns.
Meaning: More important than anything else; supreme in importance (Adjective)
Pronunciation: PAIR-uh-mount
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Anglo-French *paramont*, from *par* (“by”) + *amont* (“above”) → literally, "by or above all"
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Paramount” is a high-impact word perfect for persuasive or academic writing. Use it to stress absolute importance—especially in ethical arguments, policy analysis, or leadership discussions. It adds a formal and emphatic tone when you're prioritizing one value over others. Common collocations: *paramount importance*, *paramount concern*, *paramount goal*.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: supreme, foremost, overriding, primary, utmost
Antonyms: minor, secondary, trivial, negligible
Usage Examples:
- The safety of passengers is paramount for any airline.
- Freedom of expression is a paramount principle in democratic societies.
- In emergency response, time is of paramount significance.
- For the team, trust was paramount to their success.
Cultural Reference:
The name *Paramount Pictures*, one of the oldest film studios in Hollywood, was chosen to imply superiority and leadership in entertainment—linking the word to excellence and dominance. – Pop Culture & Branding
Think About It:
In your life or values, what principle or goal is paramount—and how does that shape your decisions?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “paramount” to prioritize one principle over another in a political, social, or academic context.
Memory Tip:
“Paramount” sounds like a *mountain*—think of it as something that stands *above all* the rest.
Real-World Application:
“Paramount” is often used in business, law, ethics, education, and public policy to emphasize core priorities or values that override others.
WORD 4: Endemic
Context:
“Malaria is endemic to parts of sub-Saharan Africa, meaning it persists at a relatively constant rate year-round.”
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Endemic" is an adjective used to describe something—most commonly a disease or species—that is regularly found within a particular geographic area or among a specific population. In biology and public health, it refers to a condition that is consistently present but limited in scope. It can also be used metaphorically to describe issues, attitudes, or problems that are deeply rooted or widespread within a group or system.
Meaning: Naturally and constantly present in a specific location or population (Adjective)
Pronunciation: en-DEM-ik
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Greek *endēmos* (“native, in the population”), from *en-* (“in”) + *dēmos* (“people”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Endemic” is often confused with *epidemic* and *pandemic*. Use it when referring to something consistently present in a region or system. It’s especially common in biology, health, ecology, and social commentary. Try pairing it with terms like *species*, *disease*, *corruption*, or *violence* depending on the context.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: native, local, rooted, persistent, indigenous
Antonyms: foreign, imported, epidemic, transient
Usage Examples:
- The plant species is endemic to a small island in the Pacific.
- Poverty is endemic in certain urban districts due to years of neglect and poor governance.
- The flu becomes endemic in some regions during the colder months.
- Corruption was described as endemic to the organization’s culture.
Cultural Reference:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, public health experts began discussing when and how the virus might transition from a pandemic to being *endemic*, meaning it would become a constant, manageable part of daily life. – Global Health & Epidemiology
Think About It:
When a problem becomes endemic in society, how do we begin to address it without becoming numb to its presence?
Quick Activity:
Write one sentence using “endemic” in a biological sense and another using it to describe a social or political issue.
Memory Tip:
“Endemic” = *in the people* → something that lives *inside* a group or region continuously.
Real-World Application:
“Endemic” is used in biology, environmental science, public health, and sociology to describe conditions or traits that are persistent and locally specific.
WORD 5: Widespread
Context:
“The new regulation has received widespread support from educators and parents alike.”
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Widespread" is an adjective used to describe something that exists or happens over a large area or among a large number of people. It implies broad reach, high frequency, or general occurrence, and is often used to refer to beliefs, behaviors, support, criticism, phenomena, or conditions. It is frequently found in news, academic writing, and reports to show scope and impact.
Meaning: Found or occurring over a large area or among many people (Adjective)
Pronunciation: WIDE-spred
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From “wide” (broad) + “spread” (to extend or distribute), meaning “spread out over a wide area”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Widespread” is a versatile and impactful adjective, excellent for essays, analysis, and journalism. Use it to highlight scale or popularity, especially when talking about public opinion, phenomena, trends, or consequences. It often works well with abstract nouns like “concern,” “support,” “criticism,” or “damage.”
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: prevalent, common, extensive, universal, far-reaching
Antonyms: limited, rare, localized, isolated
Usage Examples:
- There is widespread concern about climate change among younger generations.
- The rumor gained widespread attention after it was shared on social media.
- Widespread corruption in the organization led to a public scandal.
- Support for the new vaccine was widespread across all age groups.
Cultural Reference:
The term “widespread” was frequently used during the COVID-19 pandemic to describe infections, misinformation, and policy impacts—indicating the global nature of the crisis. – Global Media & Public Health Language
Think About It:
Does calling something “widespread” make it more credible—or can it be misleading if not supported by facts?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “widespread” to describe a social issue, scientific trend, or cultural shift.
Memory Tip:
“Widespread” = *spread widely* → Picture ink spilled across a map—covering large areas.
Real-World Application:
“Widespread” is used in journalism, academic writing, policymaking, and everyday speech to describe phenomena that affect many people or places.
WORD 6: Imperatives
Context:
“In addressing climate change, governments face moral and economic imperatives to act swiftly.”
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Imperatives" is the plural form of "imperative" and refers to commands, urgent needs, or essential principles that require immediate attention or action. In grammar, it refers to verb forms that express direct commands (e.g., "Listen carefully!"). In broader usage—especially in ethics, policy, and strategy—it describes duties, priorities, or pressures that cannot be ignored. The word often carries a sense of urgency and necessity, whether practical or moral.
Meaning: Things that are of vital importance or express a command or obligation (Noun – plural)
Pronunciation: im-PAIR-uh-tivz
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *imperativus*, from *imperare* (“to command”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Imperatives” is a strong, formal word perfect for academic writing, especially in essays about leadership, ethics, international relations, or strategy. It’s also helpful in grammar contexts to discuss sentence structures. Use it when highlighting duties, priorities, or non-negotiable goals. Common collocations include *moral imperatives*, *strategic imperatives*, or *economic imperatives*.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: necessities, urgencies, commands, priorities, duties
Antonyms: options, suggestions, non-essentials, recommendations
Usage Examples:
- There are clear imperatives for businesses to adopt sustainable practices.
- Military leaders must often act based on strategic imperatives rather than emotion.
- The teacher explained the difference between imperatives and interrogatives in grammar.
- Humanitarian imperatives sometimes outweigh political considerations in crisis zones.
Cultural Reference:
Philosopher Immanuel Kant introduced the concept of the *categorical imperative*—a moral law that applies universally, guiding ethical behavior without condition. This idea remains central in modern moral philosophy. – Western Ethics & Philosophy
Think About It:
What personal or societal imperatives guide your decisions—and are they moral, strategic, or emotional?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “imperatives” in a moral or political context, and another in a grammatical context.
Memory Tip:
“Imperatives” = things you must do → think of them as *musts*, not *maybes*.
Real-World Application:
“Imperatives” is used in education, public policy, leadership, strategy, military discourse, and ethics to define non-negotiable priorities or duties.
WORD 7: Transactional
Context:
“Their relationship felt more transactional than emotional—each favor seemed to come with an expectation of something in return.”
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Transactional" is an adjective describing something based on an exchange, especially where the interaction is driven by clear terms of give-and-take rather than emotional connection or deeper values. It is commonly used in business, economics, and psychology. While “transactional” can be neutral in commercial contexts (e.g., a transactional system), it often has a negative connotation in personal relationships or leadership styles, suggesting coldness or a lack of authenticity.
Meaning: Focused on exchange or trade, often lacking emotional or relational depth (Adjective)
Pronunciation: tran-ZAK-shuh-nul
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *transigere* (“to drive through, settle”), via French *transaction*, referring to the process of conducting an exchange
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Transactional” is a great word for use in essays on economics, leadership, education, or even emotional intelligence. It helps critique superficial exchanges or mechanical systems. Use it to analyze relationships, systems, or decisions that are driven more by benefits and bargaining than trust or values.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: exchange-based, utilitarian, conditional, give-and-take
Antonyms: emotional, relational, altruistic, unconditional
Usage Examples:
- The customer service approach was highly transactional, lacking warmth or personal attention.
- He viewed friendships as transactional—based on what he could get from others.
- Transactional leadership focuses on performance and reward, not long-term inspiration.
- In contrast to a transactional culture, some companies prioritize empathy and values in their operations.
Cultural Reference:
In psychology, *Transactional Analysis* is a theory developed by Eric Berne that studies communication and relationships by examining exchanges—or "transactions"—between individuals. It classifies them as Parent, Adult, or Child interactions. – Psychological Theories
Think About It:
What are the signs that a relationship—personal or professional—has become purely transactional, and how can it be transformed?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “transactional” in a business context, and another in a personal or emotional context.
Memory Tip:
“Transactional” = think *transaction* → a give-and-take deal; now apply that idea to behavior or communication.
Real-World Application:
“Transactional” is used in economics, leadership theory, education, marketing, and relationship psychology to describe interactions based on trade, conditions, or mutual benefit.
WORD 8: Subtle
Context:
“She gave a subtle smile, barely noticeable but full of meaning.”
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Subtle" is an adjective used to describe something that is delicate, nuanced, or not immediately obvious. It refers to things that are understated, refined, or indirect, often requiring careful observation or sensitivity to detect. It’s commonly used to describe feelings, gestures, differences, or changes that are meaningful but not loud or exaggerated. The word carries connotations of elegance, sophistication, and complexity.
Meaning: Delicate or difficult to perceive; not obvious but effective or clever (Adjective)
Pronunciation: SUH-tl (note the silent “b”)
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *subtilis* (“fine, delicate”), meaning finely woven, through Old French *sotil*
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Subtle” is an excellent word for describing complexity without obviousness—useful in essays, fiction, and art criticism. It enhances your expression when discussing things that are layered, nuanced, or indirect. It's often paired with words like *difference*, *shift*, *clue*, or *gesture* to elevate the tone of your writing.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: delicate, faint, nuanced, indirect, understated
Antonyms: obvious, blatant, overt, loud, bold
Usage Examples:
- There was a subtle shift in her tone that hinted at disappointment.
- The perfume had a subtle floral note that lingered gently in the air.
- His artwork reveals subtle emotions through minimal brushwork.
- The film critiques society in a subtle, thought-provoking way.
Cultural Reference:
In Japanese aesthetics, the concept of *wabi-sabi* celebrates subtle beauty in imperfection and impermanence—an idea that aligns with the understated power of subtlety. – World Art & Philosophy
Think About It:
Why do subtle expressions or gestures sometimes convey more meaning than bold ones?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “subtle” to describe an emotional expression, and another for a change in environment or behavior.
Memory Tip:
“Subtle” has a *silent ‘b’*—just like its meaning, it hides something quietly but significantly.
Real-World Application:
“Subtle” is widely used in literature, psychology, art, communication, and diplomacy—anywhere nuance, tone, or interpretation matters.
WORD 9: Fixation
Context:
“His fixation on perfection made it difficult for him to complete even simple tasks.”
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Fixation" is a noun that refers to an obsessive focus or an unusually intense attachment to something—such as an idea, object, person, or behavior. In psychology, it specifically describes a persistent focus on an earlier stage of development, often resulting from unresolved conflicts or trauma. In general usage, the word implies an unhealthy or excessive preoccupation that may interfere with balance or well-being.
Meaning: An obsessive or excessive focus on someone or something (Noun)
Pronunciation: fik-SAY-shun
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *fixus* (“fixed”) + *-ation*, meaning “the act of being fixed or fastened on something”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Fixation” is a powerful word in both psychological and general writing. Use it when analyzing obsessive tendencies, rigid beliefs, or unhealthy attachments. It fits well in critical essays, character analysis, or articles on behavior and mental health. Be careful—it’s not a casual word; it often implies something limiting or problematic.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: obsession, preoccupation, infatuation, attachment, compulsion
Antonyms: indifference, detachment, flexibility, neutrality
Usage Examples:
- His fixation on social media began to affect his productivity.
- The artist’s fixation with symmetry defined his unique visual style.
- Freud believed that unresolved childhood trauma could lead to fixation in adult behavior.
- She had a fixation on neatness, rearranging things even when they didn’t need it.
Cultural Reference:
In Freudian psychology, “oral fixation” or “anal fixation” refers to developmental issues stemming from unresolved childhood stages—concepts foundational to early psychoanalytic theory. – Psychology & Psychoanalysis
Think About It:
At what point does passion become fixation—and how can you tell the difference?
Quick Activity:
Write one sentence using “fixation” in a psychological sense and another in a casual, modern context (e.g., tech, trends, appearance).
Memory Tip:
Think *fixation* = “fixed on” → stuck mentally or emotionally on something you can’t let go of.
Real-World Application:
“Fixation” is widely used in psychology, behavioral studies, media commentary, and literature to describe patterns of obsessive attention or influence.
WORD 10 : Short-termism
Context:
“Critics argue that short-termism in corporate decision-making undermines sustainability and long-term value creation.”
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Short-termism" is a noun that refers to the excessive focus on short-term results, gains, or benefits at the expense of long-term planning and sustainability. It is often used in criticism of business, political, or personal decision-making where immediate success is prioritized over enduring impact or responsibility. The term carries a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of vision, responsibility, or ethical foresight.
Meaning: A focus on short-term goals or outcomes to the detriment of long-term planning or sustainability (Noun)
Pronunciation: short-TURM-izm
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: Formed from *short-term* + *-ism* (a belief or practice), popularized in business and policy discussions since the late 20th century
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Short-termism” is a critical word to use in economics, sustainability essays, leadership analysis, or public policy critique. It’s especially useful when evaluating practices that neglect future consequences. Use it thoughtfully to challenge superficial success or urgent decision-making that sacrifices deeper value or ethics.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: quick-fix mentality, short-sightedness, reactive thinking, immediate gratification
Antonyms: long-term planning, foresight, sustainability, strategic vision
Usage Examples:
- Short-termism in politics often results in policies designed only to win the next election.
- Corporate short-termism can discourage investment in innovation or employee well-being.
- The startup avoided short-termism by focusing on slow, sustainable growth over rapid expansion.
- Environmental activists warn that short-termism threatens the health of future generations.
Cultural Reference:
In 2015, Larry Fink, CEO of BlackRock, wrote an open letter urging CEOs to resist short-termism and prioritize long-term value creation—a move that sparked widespread debate in the corporate world. – Global Finance & Corporate Ethics
Think About It:
What decisions in your life, school, or community reflect short-termism—and how might they be reframed with long-term impact in mind?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence contrasting short-termism and long-term thinking in the context of business, education, or climate policy.
Memory Tip:
“Short-termism” = *short-term* + *-ism* → a belief or habit of thinking only about *now*, not *later*.
Real-World Application:
“Short-termism” is widely used in economics, public policy, sustainability, corporate governance, and ethical debates—highlighting the danger of neglecting long-term consequences for immediate results.
