✨ 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:
- Manuscript
- Medieval
- Extravagance
- Orientalism
- Fascination
- Stereotypical
- Exotic
- Protagonist
- Adventurer
- Hard-knocks upbringing
WORD-1: Manuscript
Context:
"After years of research, the historian finally submitted his manuscript to the publishing house." – History Writers Quarterly
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Manuscript” refers to a document that is written by hand or, in modern usage, a draft of a work that is being prepared for publication. Originally, manuscripts were handwritten texts before the invention of the printing press. Today, it usually refers to the typed or digital version of an unpublished book, article, or research paper.
Meaning: A document prepared for publication; originally, a handwritten text (Noun)
Pronunciation: MAN-yoo-script
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *manus* (hand) + *scriptus* (written) — literally “handwritten.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Manuscript” is a classic academic and literary term. Whether you're talking about a medieval text or your novel’s first draft, this word gives your description a professional and historical edge.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: draft, text, document, typescript, codex
Antonyms: final version, print edition, oral work
Usage Examples:
- The author's manuscript was accepted after two rounds of editing.
- Medieval manuscripts were often decorated with intricate illustrations.
- Please submit your manuscript in double-spaced format.
- She found an ancient manuscript hidden in the library archives.
Cultural Reference:
"The Dead Sea Scrolls are a collection of ancient Jewish manuscripts discovered near the Dead Sea in the 1940s." – Biblical Archaeology Review
Think About It:
With the rise of digital writing tools, will the idea of a “manuscript” become obsolete, or evolve?
Quick Activity:
Imagine you’re submitting your first book. Write the title and one sentence from your manuscript.
Memory Tip:
“Manu” = hand + “script” = write → Manuscript = something originally *written by hand*.
Real-World Application:
“Manuscript” is widely used in publishing, academia, journalism, and legal writing—anywhere a draft or original written work is part of the creation or submission process.
WORD-2: Medieval
Context:
"The castle, with its towering stone walls and torch-lit halls, looked like something straight out of a medieval legend." – Travel & Heritage Magazine
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Medieval” refers to the Middle Ages, a historical period roughly spanning from the 5th to the 15th century. The term is often used to describe anything related to that era—its architecture, literature, customs, or institutions. It can also be used metaphorically to describe outdated or primitive ideas or practices.
Meaning: Relating to the Middle Ages or suggestive of that period (Adjective)
Pronunciation: muh-DEE-vee-uhl or meh-DEE-vuhl
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *medium aevum*, meaning “the middle age.” Formed from *medius* (middle) + *aevum* (age).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This word appears frequently in historical and cultural discussions. Beyond history, it’s also used in satire or criticism—calling something “medieval” can imply it's harsh or backward by today’s standards.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: Middle Ages, feudal, archaic, ancient
Antonyms: modern, contemporary, futuristic, progressive
Usage Examples:
- The museum houses a vast collection of medieval armor and weaponry.
- Some critics called the law medieval in its cruelty and lack of justice.
- The cathedral’s architecture is a fine example of medieval design.
- He studied medieval philosophy and its influence on Western thought.
Cultural Reference:
"Game of Thrones drew heavily on medieval history for its world-building, politics, and battles." – Pop Culture Historical Journal
Think About It:
Why do you think medieval themes continue to fascinate people in books, films, and video games today?
Quick Activity:
Describe one medieval object, custom, or building in two lines using vivid imagery. Use “medieval” in your description.
Memory Tip:
“Medi” = middle + “eval” = age → Think “Medieval” = middle of history (between ancient and modern times).
Real-World Application:
“Medieval” is frequently used in history classes, architecture, pop culture, and social critique to reference the period or describe ideas seen as outdated or extreme.
WORD-3: Extravagance
Context:
"The royal wedding was marked by sheer extravagance, from diamond-studded gowns to a ten-tier cake." – Global Style Journal
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Extravagance” refers to the act of spending more money or using more resources than necessary, often in a showy or excessive manner. It can relate to lavish lifestyles, elaborate events, or even emotional behavior that goes beyond what’s considered reasonable or practical. The term often carries a critical tone, suggesting excess without purpose or restraint.
Meaning: Excessive or unnecessary expenditure of money, time, or resources (Noun)
Pronunciation: ek-STRAV-uh-guns
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *extravagari* (to wander beyond), combining *extra-* (outside) and *vagari* (to wander).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This word often shows up in essays about economics, wealth inequality, or social critique. It's especially useful when describing over-the-top displays or spending habits that seem unjustified or wasteful.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: luxury, excess, opulence, indulgence, splurge
Antonyms: simplicity, modesty, frugality, restraint, thrift
Usage Examples:
- The billionaire’s birthday bash was an exercise in pure extravagance.
- Critics accused the government of extravagance during a time of economic hardship.
- Her shopping habits bordered on extravagance, with weekly designer hauls.
- The film’s visual extravagance couldn’t make up for its weak storyline.
Cultural Reference:
"The Palace of Versailles is often cited as a symbol of royal extravagance that helped spark the French Revolution." – World History Archives
Think About It:
At what point does celebration become extravagance? Is the line between the two cultural or personal?
Quick Activity:
Write a short paragraph describing an extravagant event—real or imagined. Use at least two adjectives and the word “extravagance.”
Memory Tip:
Think: *Extra* + *Vagant* → going beyond the normal in a wandering (lavish) way.
Real-World Application:
“Extravagance” is frequently used in journalism, finance, environmental critique, and lifestyle commentary to discuss overconsumption and showy displays of wealth or emotion.
WORD-4: Orientalism
Context:
"The museum’s collection sparked debate over whether it celebrated Asian culture or reinforced outdated Orientalism." – Global Arts Review
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Orientalism” refers to the way Western cultures have historically viewed and depicted the East—especially Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa—often through a lens of exoticism, stereotyping, and cultural superiority. The term gained critical prominence through Edward Said’s groundbreaking 1978 book, where he argued that such portrayals were a form of intellectual and political domination disguised as fascination or admiration.
Meaning: A Western style of representing Eastern societies in stereotypical or exoticized ways; also, the academic study of the Orient (Noun)
Pronunciation: awr-ee-EN-tuh-liz-um
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Advanced
Etymology: From “Oriental” (of the East) + “-ism”; popularized critically by Edward Said in the late 20th century.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This is a must-know term in postcolonial studies, art criticism, and cultural theory. It’s key when discussing how knowledge, culture, and power intersect in history and literature. Also useful when evaluating biased or romanticized depictions of Eastern cultures.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: exoticism, stereotyping, cultural appropriation, romanticization
Antonyms: cultural accuracy, authenticity, decolonial representation, objectivity
Usage Examples:
- Edward Said's *Orientalism* revolutionized how the West’s portrayal of the East is critiqued.
- The film was criticized for its Orientalism and one-dimensional portrayal of Middle Eastern cultures.
- In academic circles, Orientalism is now studied as a form of cultural hegemony.
- The artwork mixes genuine cultural appreciation with subtle traces of Orientalism.
Cultural Reference:
"Orientalism is not just a subject matter, but a style of thought based upon an ontological and epistemological distinction made between ‘the Orient’ and ‘the Occident.’" – Edward Said, *Orientalism* (1978)
Think About It:
Can admiration for a culture turn into a harmful stereotype if not understood deeply and contextually?
Quick Activity:
List a movie, book, or artwork that portrays an Eastern culture. Reflect: Does it show cultural depth, or does it lean toward Orientalism?
Memory Tip:
Think: “Orientalism” = viewing the East through a Western lens — sometimes tinted, sometimes distorted.
Real-World Application:
“Orientalism” is a vital term in cultural critique, media studies, and education—it helps identify biases in representations and encourages more respectful, nuanced understandings of non-Western societies.
WORD-5: Fascination
Context:
"Her fascination with space began after watching a documentary on black holes." – Scientific Curiosity Monthly
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Fascination” refers to a powerful feeling of intense interest or attraction toward something. It describes the state of being completely absorbed, curious, or captivated—whether by an idea, person, object, or experience. It often leads to deep exploration or long-term engagement with a subject.
Meaning: Intense interest or attraction toward something (Noun)
Pronunciation: fas-uh-NAY-shun
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *fascinatio*, meaning “spell or charm,” from *fascinare* – “to bewitch or enchant.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This is a core word in emotional vocabulary. It’s perfect for both academic and creative writing when expressing the idea of deep or even obsessive interest. Use it to show passion and curiosity.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: attraction, intrigue, enchantment, obsession, captivation
Antonyms: indifference, disinterest, boredom, detachment
Usage Examples:
- His fascination with ancient Egypt led him to become an archaeologist.
- The book explores humanity’s long-standing fascination with immortality.
- Children often show a natural fascination with animals and nature.
- Her fascination with art began when she visited the Louvre in Paris.
Cultural Reference:
"There is a fascination with things that are forbidden, mysterious, or unknown—it’s what drives much of storytelling." – Joseph Campbell, *The Hero’s Journey*
Think About It:
What fascinates you so deeply that you lose track of time when engaging with it?
Quick Activity:
List three topics or subjects you find fascinating. Then, write one sentence explaining why one of them fascinates you.
Memory Tip:
“Fascination” comes from “fascinate,” which sounds like “fasten” — something that fastens or holds your attention tightly.
Real-World Application:
“Fascination” is commonly used in writing, psychology, education, and even marketing to describe deep interest or emotional pull—it's key to understanding human motivation and passion.
WORD-6: Stereotypical
Context:
"The movie was criticized for its stereotypical portrayal of small-town life." – Culture Critique Weekly
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Stereotypical” refers to an oversimplified and commonly held idea or image about a particular group of people, culture, or situation. These representations often ignore individuality and nuance, leading to generalizations that may be unfair, inaccurate, or even harmful. It’s often used critically in social and cultural discussions.
Meaning: Relating to a fixed, oversimplified, and widely held idea or image (Adjective)
Pronunciation: stair-ee-oh-TIP-i-kuhl
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From “stereotype,” coined in French in the 18th century for printing, later applied metaphorically to fixed ideas + suffix “-ical.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This word is essential when writing about media bias, identity, representation, or social justice. It's a critical thinking tool—always question if what you’re seeing is stereotypical or authentic.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: cliched, formulaic, generalized, conventional, one-dimensional
Antonyms: unique, nuanced, individualized, complex, authentic
Usage Examples:
- The ad relied on stereotypical gender roles that felt outdated.
- His characters often break away from stereotypical molds.
- The depiction of the villain was stereotypical and lacked depth.
- We must challenge stereotypical assumptions about intelligence and race.
Cultural Reference:
"Stereotypes are not just offensive, they are also lazy storytelling." – Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, *The Danger of a Single Story*
Think About It:
Why do you think stereotypical portrayals persist in media, even when they are widely criticized?
Quick Activity:
Identify one stereotypical character you’ve seen in a book or film. Rewrite that character in a more nuanced and realistic way.
Memory Tip:
“Stereotypical” = “Stereo” (same from both sides) + “typical” → something repeated and predictable, not unique.
Real-World Application:
“Stereotypical” is key in social discussions, education, DEI training, and media critique—helping to identify and challenge unfair generalizations about people and communities.
WORD-7: Exotic
Context:
"The market was filled with exotic spices, unfamiliar fruits, and vibrant fabrics from distant lands." – Traveler’s Digest
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Exotic” describes something that is unusual, striking, or excitingly different—often because it comes from a faraway place or unfamiliar culture. While the word may suggest admiration or intrigue, it can also carry problematic undertones if it exoticizes people or traditions in a shallow or stereotypical way.
Meaning: Attractively unusual or striking because it is from a foreign or unfamiliar place (Adjective)
Pronunciation: ig-ZOT-ik
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Greek *exōtikos*, meaning “from the outside,” based on *exō* (outside).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Use this word thoughtfully—while it adds color and variety to your vocabulary, remember it can unintentionally suggest otherness or simplification when referring to people or cultures. Excellent for descriptive writing, especially travel and food.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: foreign, unusual, striking, mysterious, outlandish
Antonyms: familiar, native, ordinary, domestic, common
Usage Examples:
- They served an exotic dish made with rare herbs and spices.
- The exotic bird’s bright feathers caught everyone's attention.
- She wore an exotic perfume that lingered in the air long after she left.
- The novel romanticized the “exotic East” in a way that felt outdated.
Cultural Reference:
"The term 'exotic' has historically been used in colonial literature to describe the unfamiliar in a way that often reinforces stereotypes." – Edward Said, *Culture and Imperialism*
Think About It:
Is calling something “exotic” always a compliment, or can it sometimes reduce complexity to mere novelty?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “exotic” to describe a place or object. Then reflect: is your description respectful and accurate?
Memory Tip:
“Exotic” sounds like “exit” — think of it as something that comes from *outside* your usual world.
Real-World Application:
“Exotic” appears in travel writing, cuisine reviews, and fashion descriptions—but must be used mindfully to avoid cultural generalizations or exoticism.
WORD-8: Protagonist
Context:
"The protagonist of the novel struggles with identity and belonging in a rapidly changing world." – Literary Review Weekly
Explanatory Paragraph:
A “protagonist” is the main character in a story, play, film, or narrative. This is the figure around whom the plot revolves, and with whom the audience is meant to identify or empathize. The protagonist often faces challenges or conflicts, which drive the storyline forward. While typically heroic, a protagonist can also be flawed or morally ambiguous.
Meaning: The main character or leading figure in a literary work or narrative (Noun)
Pronunciation: pro-TAG-uh-nist
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Greek *protagonistēs* — *protos* (first) + *agonistēs* (combatant or actor), meaning “first actor” or “principal character.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This is a foundational term in literature, cinema, and storytelling. Knowing who the protagonist is helps you understand the heart of any narrative. It’s also useful in academic writing or essays where structure and character analysis are important.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: main character, central figure, lead, hero, heroine
Antonyms: antagonist, villain, secondary character, sidekick
Usage Examples:
- In many classic novels, the protagonist undergoes a journey of self-discovery.
- The audience sympathized with the protagonist despite his many flaws.
- The story lacked a clear protagonist, making it difficult to follow.
- Katniss Everdeen is the strong-willed protagonist of *The Hunger Games* series.
Cultural Reference:
"In Shakespearean drama, protagonists like Hamlet and Macbeth are deeply complex, reflecting both noble traits and fatal flaws." – Classic English Literature Studies
Think About It:
Can a story be compelling without a clear protagonist—or are we always looking for someone to root for?
Quick Activity:
Name the protagonist of your favorite book or movie. Write one sentence describing what makes them compelling.
Memory Tip:
“Pro-” means “first” and “-tagonist” is “actor” — the protagonist is always the lead actor in the story!
Real-World Application:
“Protagonist” is a critical word in literature, screenwriting, theatre, and psychology—used to analyze character arcs, motivation, and narrative design.
WORD-9: Adventurer
Context:
"The young adventurer set off with nothing but a backpack, a map, and a heart full of curiosity." – Wanderlust Chronicles
Explanatory Paragraph:
An “adventurer” is someone who seeks excitement, exploration, and often takes risks in pursuit of new experiences. Whether climbing mountains, traveling unknown lands, or embracing challenges in everyday life, an adventurer embraces the thrill of the unknown. The term also carries a romantic or daring connotation, often associated with courage and a pioneering spirit.
Meaning: A person who seeks or engages in exciting, risky, or daring activities (Noun)
Pronunciation: ad-VEN-chuh-rer
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Old French *aventureor*, meaning one who takes chances, based on *aventure* (chance, fate).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Adventurer” evokes imagination—perfect for storytelling, character building, or even personal essays. Use it to depict those who boldly seek new paths, whether physically or metaphorically.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: explorer, voyager, risk-taker, wanderer, daredevil
Antonyms: homebody, cautious person, settler, conservative
Usage Examples:
- She became an adventurer after quitting her corporate job to travel the world.
- Famous adventurers like Marco Polo and Amelia Earhart inspired generations.
- He’s not just a thrill-seeker—he’s a true adventurer at heart.
- The movie tells the story of a fearless adventurer searching for a lost city.
Cultural Reference:
"Indiana Jones is the quintessential adventurer—brave, curious, and always in search of ancient mysteries." – Popular Cinema Legends
Think About It:
Do you think being an adventurer today requires travel—or can adventure also be a mindset in everyday life?
Quick Activity:
Describe an imaginary adventurer: name them, where they’re going, and what they’re searching for.
Memory Tip:
Link “adventurer” to “adventure”—someone who lives for the *venture*, the journey, and the challenge.
Real-World Application:
“Adventurer” is widely used in biographies, travel writing, brand storytelling, and motivational content to describe people who embrace the unknown with courage and passion.
WORD-10: Hard-Knocks Upbringing
Context:
"Her hard-knocks upbringing taught her resilience, self-reliance, and a fierce determination to succeed." – Biography Now
Explanatory Paragraph:
A “hard-knocks upbringing” refers to a childhood or early life marked by difficulty, poverty, hardship, or adversity. This informal phrase emphasizes learning life lessons through tough personal experiences rather than formal education or privilege. It is often used to highlight strength of character, perseverance, or a humble background.
Meaning: A tough or challenging early life experience that teaches practical, often painful, life lessons (Noun Phrase)
Pronunciation: hard-noks UP-bring-ing
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From the idiom "school of hard knocks," meaning learning through tough real-world experiences. “Upbringing” comes from Old English *upbringan*, meaning to rear or raise a child.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This phrase is vivid and emotional—useful in biographies, narratives, and essays on personal growth. It captures not just difficulty but the transformation and grit born from it. Use with sensitivity.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: tough childhood, rough upbringing, difficult early life, underprivileged background
Antonyms: privileged upbringing, easy childhood, sheltered life, comfortable background
Usage Examples:
- He often credits his success to his hard-knocks upbringing in a struggling neighborhood.
- Her hard-knocks upbringing made her fiercely independent and emotionally strong.
- Despite his hard-knocks upbringing, he never lost his curiosity or kindness.
- They used their hard-knocks upbringing as a source of motivation rather than resentment.
Cultural Reference:
"The phrase ‘school of hard knocks’ has been used for over a century to describe the idea of learning life’s lessons through struggle, not textbooks." – American Idioms Archive
Think About It:
Do hardships in childhood always build resilience, or can they sometimes cause lasting harm without support?
Quick Activity:
Write two sentences about a fictional character with a hard-knocks upbringing. Highlight one quality that hardship helped them develop.
Memory Tip:
Think: “Hard knocks” = life hits hard → an upbringing shaped by real-world struggles, not comforts.
Real-World Application:
This phrase is often used in motivational speeches, biographies, personal essays, and interviews to illustrate the idea of rising through adversity and learning from life's toughest lessons.
