✨ 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:
- Appropriating
- Persuaded
- Renditions
- Archaeological
- Nonprofit
- Historians
- Preserve
- CyArk
- traffic
- Inappropriate
WORD-1: Appropriating
Context:
"Critics accused the brand of appropriating Indigenous symbols without understanding their cultural significance." – The Guardian
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Appropriating" means taking something for one's own use, often without permission or understanding. It can refer to physical objects, funds, or abstract concepts like culture. In recent years, the term has become especially relevant in discussions of cultural appropriation—where elements of a marginalized culture are adopted by members of a dominant culture, often stripped of context or meaning. The tone of the word varies based on context: it can be neutral (as in budgeting) or critical (as in misusing cultural elements).
Meaning: Taking something for one’s own use, typically without permission or proper understanding. (Verb – present participle)
Pronunciation: uh-PRO-pree-ay-ting
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *appropriare* ("to make one's own"), from *ad-* ("to") + *proprius* ("one's own").
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Appropriating" is a layered word—it's common in finance, politics, and cultural discussions. Be mindful of tone and context: appropriating money is very different from appropriating someone's heritage or art.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: taking, claiming, seizing, adopting, annexing
Antonyms: returning, relinquishing, respecting, abstaining
Usage Examples:
- The government is appropriating funds for public health initiatives.
- He was criticized for appropriating street art styles without crediting their origins.
- The novel faced backlash for appropriating Indigenous myths without proper consultation.
- Budget committees are responsible for appropriating resources each fiscal year.
Cultural Reference:
The term “cultural appropriation” became widely discussed in the 2010s as artists, fashion brands, and celebrities were called out for appropriating sacred or traditional cultural elements without context. – Vox Culture Series
Think About It:
When does borrowing become appropriating? How can we celebrate other cultures without misusing or disrespecting them?
Quick Activity:
Think of an example of appropriate cultural exchange and one of harmful appropriation. What’s the key difference between them?
Memory Tip:
“Appropriating” = *making something your own*—but not always in the right way. Think: **appropriate vs. inappropriate use**.
Real-World Application:
Understanding “appropriating” is key in fields like ethics, law, politics, cultural studies, and media. It helps people think critically about fairness, ownership, and representation in a globalized world.
WORD-2: Archaeological
Context:
"The team uncovered an archaeological site believed to be over 3,000 years old, containing ancient tools and pottery fragments." – National Geographic
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Archaeological" is an adjective that refers to anything related to archaeology—the scientific study of human history and prehistory through the excavation and analysis of artifacts, structures, and other physical remains. It is often used to describe findings, research, sites, or methods connected to ancient civilizations and historical discoveries.
Meaning: Related to the scientific study of past human life and civilizations through artifacts, ruins, and fossils. (Adjective)
Pronunciation: ar-kee-uh-LOJ-ih-kul
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Greek *arkhaiologia* (ancient history), formed from *arkhaios* (ancient) + *logos* (study). The term came into modern usage in the 17th century.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Archaeological” is great for history, culture, and geography essays. It's more than just digging up bones—it's about reconstructing civilizations through careful evidence and interpretation.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: historical, ancient, anthropological, prehistorical (contextual)
Antonyms: modern, futuristic, contemporary (contextual)
Usage Examples:
- The archaeological dig revealed a Roman bathhouse buried beneath the city.
- She specializes in archaeological studies of early Mesopotamian societies.
- The museum houses an impressive collection of archaeological artifacts from Egypt.
- Archaeological evidence suggests the temple was used for rituals dating back 2,500 years.
Cultural Reference:
Indiana Jones, though fictional, brought archaeological adventure into popular culture, blending myth, history, and science. – Pop Culture Archaeology Review
Think About It:
What can archaeological discoveries teach us about our present society—and how might they shape our future?
Quick Activity:
Research an archaeological site (like Pompeii or the Indus Valley). Note one key finding and how it changed our understanding of history.
Memory Tip:
Think: “Archaeological” comes from “archaios” (ancient)—so it always points you to the **ancient world** through **artifacts and analysis**.
Real-World Application:
“Archaeological” is essential in history, anthropology, tourism, conservation, and heritage studies. It connects the past to the present through scientific and cultural investigation.
WORD-3: Renditions
Context:
"The singer’s acoustic renditions of classic rock songs captivated the entire audience." – Rolling Stone
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Renditions" are interpretations or versions of something, especially in the form of a performance, artwork, or translation. While the term is commonly associated with music or art, it can also be used in legal or political contexts (e.g., "extraordinary renditions"). In creative fields, a rendition reflects the performer’s or creator’s unique take on an original piece.
Meaning: Interpretations or versions of a performance, piece of art, or text. (Noun – plural)
Pronunciation: ren-DISH-uns
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic to Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *reddere* ("to give back"), via Old French *rendre*, leading to "render" and eventually “rendition” as a form of artistic or formal expression.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Renditions” is a refined word that adds sophistication when discussing performances or creative work. It's especially helpful in reviews, analysis, or essays about literature, art, and music.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: interpretations, versions, performances, presentations, adaptations
Antonyms: original (in some contexts), copy (when used for literal reproduction), imitation (if lacking creativity)
Usage Examples:
- The choir performed heartfelt renditions of holiday classics.
- Her renditions of Shakespearean monologues were praised for their emotional depth.
- The artist’s modern renditions of ancient myths drew large crowds to the gallery.
- The translator produced two different renditions of the poem, each with its own tone.
Cultural Reference:
Whitney Houston’s rendition of the U.S. national anthem at the 1991 Super Bowl is widely regarded as one of the most powerful musical renditions in American history. – Billboard Archives
Think About It:
What makes a rendition of a song or story truly original—faithfulness to the source, or the unique touch of the performer?
Quick Activity:
Pick a song or story you love. How would your rendition be different from the original? Describe it in one or two lines.
Memory Tip:
Think of “render” = to present → “rendition” = a **presentation** or **version** of something shared or performed.
Real-World Application:
“Renditions” is useful in discussions of music, drama, literature, translation, and even public speaking—any field where personal expression meets existing material.
WORD-4: Persuaded
Context:
"After hours of discussion, she finally persuaded the board to approve the new sustainability plan." – The New York Times
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Persuaded" is the past tense of "persuade," meaning to convince someone to believe something or take a particular course of action through reasoning, argument, or appeal. It implies a change in someone’s thoughts or decisions brought about not by force, but through influence or communication.
Meaning: Convinced someone to do or believe something through reasoning or appeal. (Verb – past tense)
Pronunciation: per-SWAYD-id
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic to Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *persuadere*, meaning “to bring over by talking,” from *per-* (thoroughly) + *suadere* (to advise).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Persuaded” is a core word in communication. It’s about power without pressure—changing minds through words, not force. A must-know for debates, speeches, and essays.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: convinced, influenced, coaxed, urged, swayed
Antonyms: dissuaded, discouraged, deterred, opposed
Usage Examples:
- She persuaded her parents to let her study abroad by presenting a detailed plan.
- The lawyer persuaded the jury of his client’s innocence.
- He was easily persuaded by the advertisement's emotional appeal.
- The activist persuaded the community to join the environmental cleanup drive.
Cultural Reference:
In Jane Austen’s novel *Persuasion*, the theme of being persuaded—especially by social pressure—drives the plot, showing how influence can shape personal decisions. – British Literary Classics
Think About It:
Is being persuaded a sign of weakness or strength? What factors help us decide whom to trust and follow?
Quick Activity:
Think of a time you persuaded someone (or were persuaded). What techniques were used—logic, emotion, facts, or personal appeal?
Memory Tip:
“Persuaded” contains “sway”—when you **sway** someone with your words, you’ve **persuaded** them!
Real-World Application:
“Persuaded” is central to leadership, marketing, teaching, and everyday interactions. Mastering it boosts your ability to communicate, influence, and negotiate effectively.
WORD-5: Nonprofit
Context:
"The nonprofit launched a nationwide campaign to promote mental health awareness among teenagers." – The Washington Post
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Nonprofit" refers to an organization that operates not to generate profit for owners or shareholders, but to serve a public or community purpose. These organizations reinvest any surplus income into their mission-driven activities, which may include education, health, human rights, environmental protection, and more. Nonprofits play a vital role in civil society and are often supported by donations, grants, and volunteers.
Meaning: An organization that exists to serve a public or social benefit rather than to make a profit. (Noun/Adjective)
Pronunciation: NON-prah-fit
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic to Intermediate
Etymology: Formed from *non-* (not) + *profit* (financial gain); entered common usage in the 20th century to distinguish mission-focused entities from for-profit businesses.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Nonprofits are about **purpose before profit**. Whether you're studying economics, civics, or starting a career in social work or education, this word is central. Know how nonprofits differ from businesses in structure, funding, and goals.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: not-for-profit, charitable organization, NGO, public-benefit group
Antonyms: for-profit, commercial enterprise, business, corporation
Usage Examples:
- The nonprofit provides free meals and healthcare to underserved communities.
- She founded a nonprofit to support rural education through digital tools.
- Many nonprofits rely on volunteers and grants to operate effectively.
- The documentary highlighted the challenges faced by small nonprofits during the pandemic.
Cultural Reference:
Organizations like UNICEF and the Red Cross are globally recognized nonprofits working on humanitarian issues, showing how nonprofits can scale impact beyond borders. – International NGO Spotlight
Think About It:
Can nonprofits solve problems that governments and businesses cannot? What makes them effective—or ineffective?
Quick Activity:
Look up a local nonprofit in your area. Write its mission and one way it benefits the community.
Memory Tip:
“Nonprofit” = *not for profit* → Think: **It’s not about making money, it’s about making a difference.**
Real-World Application:
Understanding nonprofits is important for careers in social work, public policy, development, and CSR. It helps students and professionals engage meaningfully with community issues and public service.
WORD-6: Historians
Context:
"Historians now believe that the collapse of the ancient civilization was due to a combination of environmental and political factors." – Smithsonian Magazine
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Historians" are individuals who study and interpret the past using sources such as documents, artifacts, oral accounts, and other evidence. They aim to understand and explain historical events, trends, and cultures. Their work helps us make sense of how societies evolved and how past experiences shape the present and future. Historians do not simply collect facts—they analyze causes, consequences, and connections across time.
Meaning: Experts who study and interpret historical events and records. (Noun – plural)
Pronunciation: his-TOR-ee-uns
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Greek *historia* (inquiry, knowledge gained by investigation); became *historian* in Latin and English, meaning “one who writes or studies history.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Historians do more than read old books—they **interpret**, **question**, and **reconstruct** the past. In essays or discussions, referring to what “historians argue” adds depth and authority to your point.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: researchers, chroniclers, scholars, archivists (contextual)
Antonyms: futurists, ignoramuses (humorous/figurative), revisionists (contextual/oppositional)
Usage Examples:
- Historians have long debated the true cause of the French Revolution.
- Modern historians use digital tools to analyze ancient texts and inscriptions.
- Many historians argue that history must be understood from multiple perspectives.
- Historians play a key role in preserving cultural heritage and national memory.
Cultural Reference:
Renowned historians like Yuval Noah Harari (*Sapiens*) and Eric Hobsbawm have made history accessible to global audiences through engaging, analytical storytelling. – Global History Spotlight
Think About It:
Can history ever be truly objective, or are all historians influenced by their time, culture, and values?
Quick Activity:
Pick a major historical event. Search for two historians who have written about it and compare their perspectives in one sentence.
Memory Tip:
“Historians” = people who study **history** → Think: *his + story + ans* = those who explain the stories of the past.
Real-World Application:
Understanding the work of historians is key in fields like education, journalism, politics, museum studies, and cultural preservation. Their research helps shape national narratives and civic awareness.
WORD-7: Preserve
Context:
"The museum works tirelessly to preserve ancient manuscripts that might otherwise be lost to time and decay." – The Smithsonian
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Preserve" means to protect something so that it remains in its original or existing state. It can refer to physical items like artifacts, natural resources, and food, as well as abstract things like traditions, values, or memories. The goal of preserving is to prevent loss, decay, or change, ensuring that the essence of something is maintained over time.
Meaning: To maintain something in its original or current condition; to protect it from harm, decay, or loss. (Verb)
Pronunciation: pruh-ZURV
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *praeservare* (“to keep safe in advance”), formed from *prae-* (before) + *servare* (to keep).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Preserve" is a versatile word used in environmental science, history, food, and culture. It's often about preventing deterioration or honoring legacy. Great for writing about sustainability, heritage, or values.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: protect, maintain, conserve, safeguard, retain
Antonyms: destroy, neglect, abandon, ruin, waste
Usage Examples:
- We must act now to preserve endangered species for future generations.
- Salt was traditionally used to preserve meat before refrigeration.
- The organization is dedicated to preserving indigenous languages.
- They worked hard to preserve the building’s original architecture during renovations.
Cultural Reference:
The UNESCO World Heritage program aims to preserve culturally and historically significant sites around the world, such as the Great Wall of China and the Pyramids of Egypt. – UNESCO.org
Think About It:
In an age of constant change, what are the things most worth preserving—and why?
Quick Activity:
List three things in your life (objects, traditions, or values) that you would want to preserve. Why are they important to you?
Memory Tip:
“Preserve” = **pre-serve** → serve something **before it’s lost** → protect or maintain it ahead of time!
Real-World Application:
"Preserve" is essential in discussions about environmental conservation, cultural heritage, health, education, and digital security. It emphasizes long-term thinking and value protection.
WORD-8: Inappropriate
Context:
"His comments during the meeting were considered highly inappropriate and unprofessional." – BBC News
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Inappropriate" refers to something that is not suitable, proper, or acceptable in a specific situation. It can describe behavior, language, clothing, or actions that violate social norms, professional expectations, or moral standards. The word is often used in educational, workplace, or cultural contexts to signal disapproval and the need for respect, sensitivity, or decorum.
Meaning: Not suitable or proper in a particular situation or context. (Adjective)
Pronunciation: in-uh-PRO-pree-it
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *in-* (not) + *appropriatus* (made one’s own, appropriate); first used in English in the early 19th century.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Inappropriate” is a formal and polite way to call out behavior that crosses the line. It’s commonly used in academic writing, social critique, and professional environments. Be clear about context—it’s a subjective term that depends on norms and expectations.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: unsuitable, improper, offensive, out of place, disrespectful
Antonyms: appropriate, suitable, fitting, acceptable, respectful
Usage Examples:
- The teacher warned the student for using inappropriate language in class.
- Wearing jeans to a formal wedding was seen as inappropriate by the hosts.
- His joke was inappropriate for the setting and made everyone uncomfortable.
- Inappropriate content was flagged and removed from the online platform.
Cultural Reference:
In media regulation, content is often rated based on whether it contains material deemed inappropriate for certain age groups—such as violence, language, or sexual themes. – Common Sense Media Guidelines
Think About It:
Is what’s considered inappropriate universal—or does it change depending on culture, time, and context?
Quick Activity:
List three examples of actions that might be considered inappropriate in one context but acceptable in another. Explain why.
Memory Tip:
“Inappropriate” = **in** (not) + **appropriate** (suitable) → so it simply means **not suitable** for the situation.
Real-World Application:
This word is vital in discussions about workplace ethics, school behavior, social etiquette, and media responsibility. Knowing when and how to use “inappropriate” helps maintain respectful and safe environments.
WORD-9: CyArk
Context:
"CyArk has digitally preserved hundreds of global heritage sites, making 3D models available for education, conservation, and tourism." – National Geographic
Explanatory Paragraph:
**CyArk** is a nonprofit organization dedicated to digitally preserving cultural heritage sites around the world. Using advanced technologies like 3D laser scanning, photogrammetry, and drone imaging, CyArk creates detailed digital records of monuments and landmarks that are at risk due to natural disasters, conflict, or time. Their mission is to ensure future generations can experience and learn from humanity’s shared cultural legacy, even if physical structures are lost.
Meaning: A nonprofit organization that digitally archives cultural heritage sites for preservation, education, and global access. (Proper Noun)
Pronunciation: SIGH-ark
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic to Intermediate
Etymology: A blend of “cyber” and “ark,” symbolizing a digital vessel for safeguarding the world’s cultural treasures.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
CyArk is an inspiring real-world example of how digital tools can preserve the past. Their work bridges heritage, technology, and education, and it’s a perfect case study for essays on digital preservation or innovation in archaeology.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: digital archive, virtual museum, cultural documentation (contextual)
Antonyms: physical-only preservation, undocumented heritage
Usage Examples:
- CyArk created a 3D model of the ancient city of Bagan after it was damaged by an earthquake.
- Thanks to CyArk, students can explore Angkor Wat virtually with high-detail imagery.
- The partnership between CyArk and Google Arts & Culture brought global heritage to classrooms around the world.
- CyArk’s work ensures that even if monuments are destroyed, their cultural and architectural value is not lost.
Cultural Reference:
CyArk has digitally preserved landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Pompeii, and Mount Rushmore. Their models are accessible to the public and have been used in education, tourism, and heritage conservation worldwide. – UNESCO Digital Heritage Projects
Think About It:
Can digital preservation fully replace physical heritage? Or does it simply offer a new way to experience and protect it?
Quick Activity:
Visit the CyArk website or explore one of its projects online. Write 2–3 sentences about what you learned or found most surprising.
Memory Tip:
“CyArk” = **Cyber Ark** → A **digital ark** that protects cultural treasures like Noah’s Ark protected life.
Real-World Application:
CyArk is relevant to students of archaeology, history, digital humanities, and conservation. It shows how technology can protect heritage from war, climate change, and decay, ensuring global access and education for future generations.
WORD-10: Traffic
Context:
"The city is taking new measures to reduce traffic congestion during peak hours." – The Times of India
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Traffic" generally refers to the movement of vehicles, people, or goods along roads, through communication networks, or between locations. It can describe physical road congestion, digital data flow (as in internet traffic), or even illegal trade (e.g., human or drug trafficking). While commonly used in everyday language, the meaning depends heavily on context—ranging from urban planning to cybersecurity to law enforcement.
Meaning: The flow or movement of vehicles, goods, data, or people; can also refer to illicit trade. (Noun / Verb in some contexts)
Pronunciation: TRA-fik
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Italian *traffico* and French *trafic*, originally meaning "commerce" or "trade," now expanded to include vehicle flow and illegal activity.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Traffic" is a flexible word—use it to describe movement in various systems (roads, networks, trade). Be mindful of tone: in technical or casual usage it’s neutral, but in contexts like “human trafficking,” it becomes serious and sensitive.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: flow, movement, congestion, transportation, circulation (contextual)
Antonyms: stillness, emptiness, void, block (contextual)
Usage Examples:
- Morning traffic in the city causes long delays for commuters.
- The website experienced a surge in internet traffic after the article went viral.
- Authorities are cracking down on illegal drug trafficking across the border.
- The traffic signal was broken, leading to chaos at the intersection.
Cultural Reference:
In digital marketing, "web traffic" is a key metric indicating how many users visit a site—crucial for measuring engagement and business growth. – HubSpot Analytics Guide
Think About It:
How can modern cities balance the benefits of movement and connectivity with the costs of traffic congestion and environmental damage?
Quick Activity:
List three types of traffic you’ve experienced or studied (e.g., road, digital, trade). How are they similar, and how are they different?
Memory Tip:
Think: “Traffic” = **things moving**—cars on roads, data on networks, or even goods in trade (both legal and illegal).
Real-World Application:
“Traffic” is a key term in urban planning, cybersecurity, logistics, and law enforcement. Understanding its many meanings helps in analyzing social systems and global issues.
