✨ 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:
- Olfactory
- Acquired taste
- Neo-traditional
- Terra patria
- Predicated
- Locus
- Ethnic cleansing
- Quantify
- Affiliations
- Topophilia
WORD-1: Olfactory
Context:
"Dogs have an extraordinary olfactory system that allows them to detect scents imperceptible to humans." – National Geographic
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "olfactory" relates to the sense of smell. It's often used in scientific, medical, and descriptive writing when referring to the organs or processes involved in detecting odors. For example, olfactory nerves carry signals from the nose to the brain, helping us interpret different smells.
Meaning: Relating to the sense of smell (Adjective)
Pronunciation: ol-fak-tuh-ree
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic-Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin "olfactus" (the act of smelling), from "olfacere" (to smell), a combination of "olere" (to smell) and "facere" (to make or do)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
A must-know word for biology and science reading comprehension. Often appears in medical and psychological contexts.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: nasal, aromatic (contextual), scent-related
Antonyms: odorless, scentless (contextual), anosmic (medical)
Usage Examples:
- The olfactory bulb plays a crucial role in transmitting smell signals to the brain.
- She noticed an olfactory reaction as the perfume wafted through the air.
- In some animals, the olfactory sense is more developed than in humans.
- Scientists studied the olfactory pathways of patients with head injuries.
Cultural Reference:
"Smell is a potent wizard that transports us across thousands of miles and all the years we have lived." – Helen Keller
Think About It:
How might the olfactory sense influence memory and emotional responses more than other senses?
Quick Activity:
List five descriptive words for different types of smells (e.g., musty, floral) and try to associate each with a memory.
Memory Tip:
Think of "olfactory" as “Ode to a Lovely Fragrance” — OL-FAC-tory reminds you of the *factory* in your nose that processes smells!
Real-World Application:
Understanding olfactory signals is important in careers like perfumery, food science, medicine, and even criminal investigations (e.g., using scent detection dogs).
WORD-2: Acquired Taste
Context:
"For many people, blue cheese is an acquired taste—they don’t like it at first, but grow to enjoy it over time." – BBC Food
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Acquired taste" refers to something that is not immediately pleasant or enjoyable but becomes appreciated after repeated exposure. It usually applies to foods, drinks, music, or cultural practices that initially seem strange or unappealing. Over time, as one becomes more familiar with the thing, they may start to enjoy or even crave it.
Meaning: Something initially disliked or unfamiliar that becomes appreciated through repeated exposure (Noun Phrase)
Pronunciation: uh-kwai-erd tayst
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic-Intermediate
Etymology: From the verb "acquire" (Latin *acquirere*, meaning "to gain or obtain") and "taste" (Old French *tast*, Latin *gustus*)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This is a must-know idiomatic phrase used often in spoken English and in essays related to culture, food, or personal preferences. Useful for vocabulary enrichment.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: developed preference, learned appreciation, cultivated liking
Antonyms: instant favorite, natural liking, instant appeal
Usage Examples:
- Sushi was an acquired taste for me—I didn’t like it the first few times.
- Jazz music is often considered an acquired taste due to its complex rhythms and improvisation.
- Strong black coffee is definitely an acquired taste, especially for those new to caffeine.
- The bitter herbs in traditional medicine are usually an acquired taste.
Cultural Reference:
"Like stinky tofu or durian, kimchi is often labeled as an 'acquired taste' by foreigners encountering it for the first time." – The Guardian
Think About It:
What does it say about human behavior that some things grow on us over time while others never do?
Quick Activity:
Make a list of three things you initially disliked but now enjoy. Write a few lines on how your perception changed over time.
Memory Tip:
Think of "acquired" as something you have to *earn* over time—like learning to enjoy a strong cheese or bitter chocolate.
Real-World Application:
This phrase is common in food blogs, culinary shows, cultural discussions, and psychology. It teaches how tastes, preferences, and habits evolve over time.
WORD-3: Neo-traditional
Context:
"The architect’s design was neo-traditional, blending classical symmetry with modern materials." – Architectural Digest
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "neo-traditional" combines “neo,” meaning new, with “traditional,” referring to established styles or norms. It describes a modern revival or reinterpretation of traditional forms. This can be applied to architecture, art, music, fashion, or even social values where old customs are revived in a new context, often mixing innovation with heritage.
Meaning: A modern interpretation or revival of traditional styles (Adjective)
Pronunciation: nee-oh-truh-dish-uh-nuhl
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Greek "neos" (new) + Latin "traditionem" (delivery, handing over), the term gained popularity in cultural and artistic discussions in the late 20th century.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
A hybrid word combining modern and classical elements—very useful in art, literature, sociology, and current affairs vocabulary. Shows up in design and political discourse too.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: classical revival, retro-modern, modern heritage, hybrid style
Antonyms: avant-garde, radical, experimental, ultra-modern
Usage Examples:
- The couple chose a neo-traditional theme for their wedding, incorporating vintage attire with contemporary music.
- Neo-traditional country music combines acoustic instruments with modern lyrical themes.
- The artist’s neo-traditional tattoo style features bold lines and classic motifs with a contemporary twist.
- Many suburban homes follow a neo-traditional blueprint, balancing comfort with historical aesthetics.
Cultural Reference:
"Neo-traditionalism has become a significant force in urban development, bringing charm back to sterile cityscapes." – The Atlantic
Think About It:
Why do you think societies often return to traditional values or aesthetics during times of uncertainty?
Quick Activity:
Pick a traditional festival or custom and describe how it could be reimagined in a neo-traditional way today.
Memory Tip:
Break it down: "Neo" = new, "Traditional" = old → Neo-traditional = a *new way of doing something old*.
Real-World Application:
Used widely in fields like architecture, interior design, cultural criticism, and fashion. It allows creators to pay homage to the past while still innovating for modern needs.
WORD-4: Terra Patria
Context:
"In the old letters, the exiled poet longed for his *terra patria*, the land of his ancestors." – Historical Essays Journal
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Terra patria” is a Latin phrase meaning “homeland” or “native land.” It evokes strong emotional and patriotic connotations, often used in historical, literary, and philosophical contexts. The phrase reflects a sense of belonging and identity linked to one’s country of origin or ancestral land. It can also be found in nationalist rhetoric or poetry expressing longing, pride, or duty toward one’s homeland.
Meaning: Homeland; native land (Noun Phrase)
Pronunciation: tair-rah pah-tree-ah
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin “terra” (earth, land) + “patria” (fatherland, country), literally meaning "land of the fathers."
Prashant Sir's Notes:
A Latin root phrase that enriches your understanding of terms like "patriotism" and "paternal." Great for literature, history, and philosophy students. Learn to spot its influence in English words.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: homeland, motherland, native soil, ancestral land
Antonyms: foreign land, exile, adopted country
Usage Examples:
- Even after years abroad, her heart remained with her *terra patria*.
- The speech stirred feelings of loyalty toward one's *terra patria*.
- Roman soldiers were proud to defend their *terra patria* against invaders.
- Artists in exile often depict images of their *terra patria* in their work.
Cultural Reference:
"Exile is never just a separation from one’s home, but a loss of *terra patria*, a rupture of identity." – Edward Said (paraphrased concept)
Think About It:
What defines your *terra patria*—is it where you were born, where your roots are, or where your heart feels at home?
Quick Activity:
Write a short paragraph titled “My Terra Patria,” describing the place you feel most connected to, and why.
Memory Tip:
“Terra” = Earth and “Patria” = Father → “Land of the Fathers” = Homeland. Imagine planting your family tree into the soil of your home country.
Real-World Application:
Understanding “terra patria” helps in interpreting literature, political speeches, and historical texts where homeland and identity are central themes.
WORD-5: Predicated
Context:
"The success of the new education policy is predicated on the assumption that teachers will receive proper training." – The Hindu
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "predicated" means something is based on or founded upon a particular idea, assumption, or condition. When a plan, belief, or statement is predicated on something, it means it depends on or assumes that thing to be true. It is often used in formal discussions about policy, philosophy, and logic to indicate foundational reasoning.
Meaning: Based or established on a certain fact, condition, or idea (Verb – usually used in passive form: “is predicated on”)
Pronunciation: preh-duh-kay-tid
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *praedicatus* (declared), past participle of *praedicare*, meaning “to proclaim” or “to affirm.” Over time, it came to mean “to base upon” in English logical and formal usage.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
A high-utility academic and formal word often found in logical arguments and official statements. Look for it in editorials and philosophical texts. Learn its passive structure: “X is predicated on Y.”
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: based on, grounded in, founded on, dependent upon
Antonyms: independent of, unrelated to, detached from
Usage Examples:
- The company’s growth strategy is predicated on continued international expansion.
- Her argument is predicated on the belief that equality starts with education.
- That theory is predicated on outdated data and assumptions.
- Many legal decisions are predicated on precedent cases.
Cultural Reference:
"Democracy is predicated on the idea of informed citizens participating in governance." – A recurring theme in civic education discourse
Think About It:
What beliefs or values in your life are predicated on assumptions you haven’t questioned in a long time?
Quick Activity:
Write two sentences using “predicated on” correctly—one for a social idea and one for a personal plan.
Memory Tip:
Think of "predicate" like a *foundation stone* — it supports the whole idea. If it breaks, the structure (argument, plan) collapses.
Real-World Application:
"Predicated on" is often used in essays, legal texts, academic writing, and analytical news pieces to show logical dependence or assumptions.
WORD-6: Ethnic Cleansing
Context:
"The international community condemned the military campaign as a brutal act of ethnic cleansing." – Al Jazeera
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Ethnic cleansing” refers to the deliberate and systematic forced removal of an ethnic, racial, or religious group from a certain area by a more dominant group, often through violence, intimidation, or expulsion. While the term itself is not a legal term under international law like “genocide,” it is used widely to describe atrocities that aim to create ethnically homogeneous regions. It is associated with war crimes, human rights abuses, and mass atrocities.
Meaning: The forced removal of an ethnic or religious group from a geographic area, often involving violence or persecution (Noun Phrase)
Pronunciation: eth-nik klen-zing
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Advanced
Etymology: The phrase emerged in the early 1990s during the Yugoslav Wars, translated from the Serbo-Croatian term *etničko čišćenje*. Though it sounds clinical, it refers to brutal and violent acts of displacement.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Understand this term in historical and political contexts. It appears in discussions on international law, conflict studies, and genocide prevention. Handle with sensitivity when writing or speaking about it.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: forced migration, mass expulsion, population purge (contextual)
Antonyms: integration, multiculturalism, coexistence, inclusivity
Usage Examples:
- Ethnic cleansing during the Bosnian War drew global condemnation and led to war crimes trials.
- The documentary detailed survivors' harrowing accounts of ethnic cleansing in the region.
- Many historians debate whether certain historical events qualify as genocide or ethnic cleansing.
- The refugee crisis was triggered by an ethnic cleansing campaign that displaced thousands.
Cultural Reference:
"We must act when we hear of genocide or ethnic cleansing—never again must be more than a phrase." – Speech by Kofi Annan at the United Nations
Think About It:
Why do you think the term “ethnic cleansing” was coined instead of using stronger terms like genocide? What are the political or diplomatic implications of such terminology?
Quick Activity:
Research and write a brief note on one historical event that involved ethnic cleansing. Reflect on the international response to it.
Memory Tip:
Though the term sounds sanitized, remember it refers to the violent and tragic "clearing out" of ethnic communities—“cleansing” used here is a euphemism masking brutality.
Real-World Application:
Essential in studies of international relations, human rights, modern history, and law. Understanding the term helps one critically engage with news, reports, and humanitarian issues around the world.
WORD-7: Locus
Context:
"In classical mechanics, the locus of points traced by a swinging pendulum forms a predictable arc." – Scientific American
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word “locus” refers to a specific position, place, or central point where something occurs or is situated. It is used in a variety of disciplines—mathematics, science, literature, and even sociology. In geometry, it refers to a set of points satisfying a certain condition. In general use, it can describe a focus or hub of activity or control. Its plural is “loci.”
Meaning: A particular position, point, or place where something occurs or is concentrated (Noun)
Pronunciation: loh-kus
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *locus* meaning “place” or “spot.” The word retains its original Latin form in English.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
An important term across disciplines. In geometry, locus means a set of points following a rule; in biology, it's a gene’s position on a chromosome; in sociology, it refers to focus or center of control.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: position, site, point, center, hub
Antonyms: disarray, randomness, dispersion (contextual)
Usage Examples:
- In geometry, a circle is the locus of points equidistant from a fixed point.
- The park became the locus of community gatherings every weekend.
- This region is now the locus of political unrest.
- The gene’s locus determines how it will be expressed in the organism.
Cultural Reference:
"Power is not only a locus, but also a network." – Michel Foucault’s interpretation of power dynamics in society.
Think About It:
What is the locus of control in your life—do you believe you shape your destiny, or is it shaped by external forces?
Quick Activity:
Draw or describe a “locus” in your life: it could be your study desk, a journal, or a park bench—where something important consistently happens.
Memory Tip:
Think of “locus” as the *location* that is the *focus*. The two words even sound and look similar!
Real-World Application:
Used in math, biology, psychology (like "locus of control"), and literature. Helps in analyzing patterns, control, and points of origin or action.
WORD-8: Quantify
Context:
"It is difficult to quantify the exact impact of social media on mental health, given the complexity of human behavior." – The Guardian
Explanatory Paragraph:
To “quantify” something means to express or measure it in numbers or specific amounts. It’s a word commonly used in scientific, statistical, and academic settings where data and precision are important. When someone asks you to quantify your claim, they’re asking for measurable evidence, not just vague statements. It turns qualitative ideas into numerical data.
Meaning: To measure or express something in numerical terms (Verb)
Pronunciation: kwan-tuh-fai
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic-Intermediate
Etymology: From Medieval Latin *quantificare*, from Latin *quantus* (“how much”) + *-fy* (to make). The word literally means "to make something countable."
Prashant Sir's Notes:
A core academic and logical reasoning word. Useful in statistics, economics, psychology, and writing arguments. Remember: whenever you're analyzing something, try to quantify it for clarity and strength.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: measure, calculate, compute, assess, evaluate
Antonyms: guess, estimate (contextual), generalize, speculate
Usage Examples:
- Researchers attempted to quantify the benefits of daily meditation on stress levels.
- Can you quantify the time saved using this software compared to manual methods?
- It’s important to quantify risk before making an investment decision.
- Polls are used to quantify public opinion on political issues.
Cultural Reference:
"What gets measured gets managed." – Peter Drucker (highlighting the importance of quantification in business and management)
Think About It:
Are there aspects of life—like happiness or love—that cannot be quantified? Should we try to measure them anyway?
Quick Activity:
Pick a habit or routine from your day (e.g., screen time, walking, studying) and try to quantify it with specific numbers for one week.
Memory Tip:
“Quantify” has “quantity” in it—so it’s all about numbers and how *much* of something there is.
Real-World Application:
Widely used in business analytics, education, health studies, marketing, and decision-making. Helps make arguments more data-driven and credible.
WORD-9: Affiliations
Context:
"Her academic affiliations include memberships with several international research bodies and think tanks." – Times Higher Education
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Affiliations” refer to the formal or informal associations a person or group has with organizations, institutions, ideologies, or causes. These connections often reflect a person’s professional, political, social, or religious ties. Whether it's a university, a political party, or a club, one's affiliations help identify their interests, roles, and network within a broader context.
Meaning: Official connections or associations with organizations or groups (Noun – plural)
Pronunciation: uh-fil-ee-ay-shuns
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic-Intermediate
Etymology: From Medieval Latin *affiliare* ("to adopt as a son"), evolving into *affiliate* (to connect or attach), then into the noun form *affiliation* in English.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This is an important formal word, often used in resumes, research papers, and application forms. Be careful with spelling and understand both singular (affiliation) and plural usage.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: connections, associations, memberships, alliances, ties
Antonyms: disaffiliations, separations, withdrawals, disconnections
Usage Examples:
- His affiliations with top universities strengthened his research credentials.
- During the background check, all political affiliations were disclosed.
- Our nonprofit seeks partnerships regardless of religious or political affiliations.
- Employees must declare any affiliations that might lead to conflicts of interest.
Cultural Reference:
"People’s group affiliations often shape their identity as much as their individual experiences." – Excerpt from *The Social Animal* by David Brooks
Think About It:
How do your affiliations—professional, social, or ideological—influence the way others perceive you?
Quick Activity:
List three organizations or groups you are affiliated with, and describe how each reflects your values or goals.
Memory Tip:
Think of “affiliations” as “a formal fit” — groups or causes you *fit in* with or are attached to officially.
Real-World Application:
This word frequently appears in academic bios, job applications, LinkedIn profiles, and political reporting. Knowing how to use it strengthens formal communication.
WORD-10: Topophilia
Context:
"The novel radiates a deep topophilia—every street and stone of the hometown is described with love and longing." – The New Yorker
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Topophilia” is a term used to describe the emotional connections people develop with specific places. It captures the deep affection, nostalgia, and sense of identity we associate with landscapes, cities, or even particular buildings. Though rooted in geography, the term is now used across literature, psychology, and cultural studies to explore how place shapes meaning in our lives.
Meaning: A strong emotional connection or love for a particular place (Noun)
Pronunciation: toe-poh-fil-ee-uh
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Greek *topos* (“place”) + *philia* (“love or fondness”). Popularized in English by the geographer Yi-Fu Tuan in the 1970s.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This is a beautiful concept word—perfect for essays on identity, memory, and environment. Helps students think about space not just physically, but emotionally and culturally.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: place attachment, sense of place, geographic affection, spatial love
Antonyms: topophobia, detachment, displacement, estrangement
Usage Examples:
- His topophilia for the Himalayan village inspired his lifelong environmental activism.
- Many immigrants express topophilia for their native lands through food, music, and rituals.
- Urban planners must consider citizens' topophilia when redeveloping heritage neighborhoods.
- The film’s visuals evoke a kind of cinematic topophilia for the rural South.
Cultural Reference:
"Topophilia is not just about beauty; it's about belonging." – Yi-Fu Tuan, humanist geographer who pioneered the concept
Think About It:
What place do you feel topophilia for—and why do you think it holds such emotional power over you?
Quick Activity:
Choose a location (city, park, room, etc.) that you feel attached to. Write 3 sentences describing what makes it special to you—use sensory details.
Memory Tip:
“Topo” = place, “philia” = love → *Topophilia* literally means “love of place.” Think of hugging your favorite hometown spot.
Real-World Application:
Used in human geography, environmental studies, literature, and architecture to explore emotional design, place-making, and cultural memory. Also relevant in branding and tourism.
