✨ 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:
- Derogatory
- Proudhon
- Anarchism
- Conquered
- Dissidents
- Federating
- Affirming
- Propaganda
- Mutualism
WORD-1: Derogatory
Context:
"The word ‘anarchy’ comes from the Greek 'anarchy', meaning contrary to authority or without a ruler, and was used in a derogatory sense until 1840, when it was adopted by Pierre-Joseph Proudhon to describe his political and social ideology." - Historical Linguistics Source
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word “derogatory” is used to describe language or remarks that are disrespectful and demeaning. If a term or comment is considered derogatory, it typically reduces the reputation or value of its subject. Historically, words can begin with a derogatory tone and evolve in meaning, as seen with "anarchy". This shows how language and its social impact can shift over time.
Meaning: Showing a critical or disrespectful attitude (Adjective)
Pronunciation: dih-ROG-uh-tor-ee
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Late Latin *derogatorius*, from Latin *derogare* meaning “to take away (from a law), to diminish.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Derogatory” is often used to call out harmful language. It’s important to recognize when language becomes a tool for insult or marginalization. The transition of the word “anarchy” from a derogatory to ideological term is a brilliant example of linguistic evolution.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: disparaging, belittling, insulting, defamatory
Antonyms: complimentary, flattering, respectful, praising
Usage Examples:
- The teacher reprimanded the student for using derogatory language in class.
- His remarks about the culture were seen as highly derogatory and offensive.
- She filed a complaint about the derogatory comments made by her coworker.
- What was once a derogatory label has now been reclaimed with pride by the community.
Cultural Reference:
"Derogatory terms have long been used to stereotype and marginalize minority groups, but modern discourse is challenging these narratives." - Linguistic Society Commentary
Think About It:
How can reclaiming words that were once used in a derogatory sense empower communities and reshape societal perceptions?
Quick Activity:
List three commonly used derogatory terms (without being offensive) and research how their usage has changed or been challenged over time.
Memory Tip:
Think of “derogatory” as “degrade + story” — a comment that degrades someone’s story or worth.
Real-World Application:
Understanding and avoiding derogatory language is crucial in fostering respectful workplace environments, academic discussions, and inclusive communication.
WORD-2: Proudhon
Context:
"Proudhon argued that organization without government was both possible and desirable." - Historical Reference
Explanatory Paragraph:
Pierre-Joseph Proudhon was a 19th-century French philosopher, economist, and the first person to declare himself an anarchist. His writings challenged traditional authority and advocated for a society based on mutual aid, voluntary cooperation, and the absence of centralized government. Proudhon’s ideas laid the foundation for modern anarchist theory and questioned the legitimacy of power and property rights, famously declaring, "Property is theft."
Meaning: Pierre-Joseph Proudhon – a French political philosopher and founder of anarchist theory (Proper Noun)
Pronunciation: PROO-don
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Advanced
Etymology: French surname; Pierre-Joseph Proudhon (1809–1865) derived from regional French roots.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Proudhon is not just a name; it represents a revolution in political thought. He was the first to use the term “anarchist” in a positive, philosophical sense, and his critiques of property and authority are central to understanding political dissent and libertarian socialism.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: anarchist thinker, libertarian socialist, anti-statist
Antonyms: authoritarian, statist, centralist
Usage Examples:
- Proudhon’s writings laid the groundwork for later anarchist and socialist ideologies.
- In political philosophy classes, Proudhon is often studied alongside Marx and Bakunin.
- Her thesis explored the influence of Proudhon on grassroots cooperative movements in Europe.
- When he said “Property is theft,” Proudhon wasn’t being rhetorical—he was laying out a revolutionary idea.
Cultural Reference:
"Property is theft!" — Pierre-Joseph Proudhon, What Is Property? (1840)
Think About It:
Can a society function effectively without hierarchical government, as Proudhon envisioned?
Quick Activity:
Research one modern movement or community that aligns with Proudhon’s vision of stateless organization. Summarize its principles in 3–5 bullet points.
Memory Tip:
Think of “Proudhon” as “Proud-on” — a proud advocate of self-governance and autonomy, standing firmly against state control.
Real-World Application:
Proudhon’s ideas continue to influence grassroots movements, community cooperatives, and debates on decentralization and individual liberty in political systems.
WORD-3: Anarchism
Context:
"In the evolution of political ideas, anarchism can be seen as an ultimate projection of both liberalism and socialism, and the differing strands of anarchist thought can be related to their emphasis on one or the other of these." - Political Theory Discourse
Explanatory Paragraph:
Anarchism is a political philosophy that advocates for a society free of government, hierarchies, and coercive authority. It seeks voluntary cooperation and mutual aid as the basis for social order. While often misunderstood as promoting chaos, anarchism actually proposes a highly organized but non-authoritarian way of structuring communities. It draws on both liberal ideals of personal freedom and socialist values of equality and shared ownership.
Meaning: A political theory advocating the abolition of governments and organized authority (Noun)
Pronunciation: AN-ar-kiz-um
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Advanced
Etymology: From Greek *anarkhia*, meaning “without a ruler,” from *an-* (without) + *arkhos* (ruler)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Anarchism is not about disorder but about challenging the legitimacy of imposed authority. Different schools of anarchism—like anarcho-communism, mutualism, and anarcho-syndicalism—reflect its broad and nuanced spectrum. It’s essential to separate the philosophy from its misrepresentations in pop culture.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: anti-authoritarianism, libertarian socialism, stateless society, self-governance
Antonyms: authoritarianism, statism, centralized governance, despotism
Usage Examples:
- She studied anarchism as part of her course on political ideologies.
- Anarchism emphasizes cooperation without coercion or state control.
- Proudhon’s writings laid the philosophical groundwork for modern anarchism.
- There are many misconceptions about anarchism, often equating it unfairly with chaos.
Cultural Reference:
"Anarchism... stands for liberation of the human mind from the dominion of religion, the liberation of the human body from the dominion of property..." — Emma Goldman
Think About It:
In what ways does anarchism challenge our traditional views of leadership and governance?
Quick Activity:
Research and list three prominent anarchist thinkers. For each, identify one key idea or contribution they made to anarchist thought.
Memory Tip:
Think of “anarchism” as “an” (without) + “arch” (ruler) = a philosophy without rulers.
Real-World Application:
Concepts from anarchism influence modern decentralized movements, grassroots activism, open-source communities, and experiments in non-hierarchical organization.
WORD-4: Conquered
Context:
"It had ended not only with a reign of terror and the emergence of a newly rich ruling caste, but with a new adored emperor, Napoleon Bonaparte, strutting through his conquered territories." - Historical Narrative
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word “conquered” refers to the act of gaining control over a place or people, typically through force or military power. In historical and political contexts, it implies domination and victory over opposition. In the sentence provided, “conquered territories” vividly portrays Napoleon’s widespread military success and control across parts of Europe, symbolizing both triumph and imperial ambition.
Meaning: Gained control of a place or people, especially by force (Verb – past tense of “conquer”)
Pronunciation: KON-kerd
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *conquirere*, meaning “to seek, procure, win,” from *com-* (together) + *quaerere* (to seek)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Conquered” is a powerful verb that doesn’t just describe physical takeover—it often symbolizes complete domination, whether territorial, cultural, or psychological. In literature, it's frequently used to highlight transformation and shifts in power.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: defeated, overpowered, subdued, vanquished
Antonyms: surrendered, lost, yielded, submitted
Usage Examples:
- The Romans conquered vast regions of Europe and left a lasting cultural legacy.
- She conquered her fear of public speaking after months of practice.
- Many empires have risen and fallen, but few conquered lands as swiftly as Napoleon’s armies did.
- After years of struggle, the disease was finally conquered through modern medicine.
Cultural Reference:
"I came, I saw, I conquered." — Julius Caesar (Latin: *Veni, vidi, vici*)
Think About It:
Is conquering always about domination through force, or can it also apply to overcoming personal challenges or societal barriers?
Quick Activity:
Write two sentences: one using “conquered” in a historical context and another in a personal growth context.
Memory Tip:
Think of “conquered” as the combination of “con” (with) + “quest” — a victorious quest that ends in taking control.
Real-World Application:
“Conquered” is commonly used in discussions about military history, personal development, sports victories, and metaphorical achievements, such as conquering fear or challenges.
WORD-5: Dissidents
Context:
"This is not merely because every state keeps a watchful and sometimes punitive eye on its dissidents, but because every state protects the privileges of the powerful." - Political Commentary
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Dissidents” are individuals who openly challenge or oppose official policies, political regimes, or prevailing ideologies, especially in authoritarian contexts. These people often advocate for reform, civil liberties, or justice, and are frequently subjected to surveillance, censorship, or punishment. The term reflects resistance and courage in standing against established authority, even at personal risk.
Meaning: People who oppose official policy, especially that of an authoritarian state (Noun – plural)
Pronunciation: DIS-ih-dents
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *dissidentem*, meaning “disagreeing, being at variance,” from *dis-* (apart) + *sedere* (to sit)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Dissidents” are vital in the struggle for truth and accountability. In many countries, progress began with voices that dissented from mainstream narratives. Their role is often vilified, but history later reveals their value as catalysts for change.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: protesters, rebels, critics, nonconformists
Antonyms: loyalists, conformists, supporters, adherents
Usage Examples:
- The government cracked down on dissidents calling for democratic reforms.
- In history, many dissidents were later celebrated as heroes and revolutionaries.
- The novel portrays the life of a dissident in an oppressive regime.
- Social media has become a powerful tool for modern dissidents to voice their concerns.
Cultural Reference:
"The dissident is not the one who rebels against society, but the one who exposes its failures and hypocrisies." — Václav Havel
Think About It:
What factors determine whether a dissident is remembered as a criminal or as a visionary?
Quick Activity:
Research a historical dissident (e.g., Nelson Mandela, Andrei Sakharov, Malala Yousafzai) and summarize their core message and impact in three sentences.
Memory Tip:
Remember “dissidents” as those who “sit apart” (from Latin *dis* + *sedere*)—they don’t sit with the majority, but stand for their beliefs.
Real-World Application:
Dissidents are central to civil rights movements, whistleblowing in corporations, and political revolutions—challenging systems to become more transparent, fair, and just.
WORD-6: Federating
Context:
"The mainstream of anarchist propaganda for more than a century has been anarchist-communism, which argues that property in land, natural resources, and the means of production should be held in mutual control by local communities, federating for innumerable joint purposes with other communes." - Anarchist Thought
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Federating” refers to the process of uniting separate entities—such as communities, states, or organizations—into a larger, cooperative structure while preserving their autonomy. In the context of anarchist-communism, it describes how independent communes can voluntarily join forces to collaborate on shared goals, forming a decentralized network rather than a centralized authority. The emphasis is on solidarity and mutual support without hierarchical control.
Meaning: Forming into a federation; joining together for mutual purposes (Verb – present participle of “federate”)
Pronunciation: FED-uh-ray-ting
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *foederare* (to ally), from *foedus* (treaty, league)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Federating” is key to understanding how decentralized systems operate in harmony. In political and educational structures alike, the term captures the spirit of cooperation without domination. Think of it as building bridges rather than creating chains of command.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: uniting, allying, associating, joining
Antonyms: dividing, splitting, separating, disbanding
Usage Examples:
- The villages are federating to manage shared water resources more efficiently.
- The model proposes federating worker cooperatives into a national alliance.
- The idea of federating autonomous schools under a community charter is gaining popularity.
- Local councils discussed federating with neighboring regions to address transportation issues collectively.
Cultural Reference:
"The anarchist ideal is not isolation but federating free individuals and communities." — Excerpt from *The Anarchist Reader*
Think About It:
Can federated models provide more democratic and resilient alternatives to centralized governance?
Quick Activity:
Imagine a project where different student groups federate to work together. What roles might each group play while still keeping their independence?
Memory Tip:
Think of “federating” as forming a “federation of friends”—linked for shared goals but still free to choose their paths.
Real-World Application:
Federating is widely used in tech (e.g., federated learning, Mastodon’s decentralized networks), politics (e.g., the EU), and education systems that seek collaborative yet independent operation.
WORD-7: Precursors
Context:
"The anarchists and their precursors were unique on the political Left in affirming that workers and peasants, grasping the chance that arose to bring an end to centuries of exploitation and tyranny..." - Historical Political Analysis
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Precursors” are people or things that come before others and often signal or influence what follows. In political or intellectual history, precursors are early thinkers, activists, or movements that lay the groundwork for future developments. In the given context, the term refers to those individuals or movements who predated the formal rise of anarchism but whose ideas and actions contributed to its foundation and spirit of resistance against oppression.
Meaning: Forerunners or predecessors; individuals or things that came before and influenced later developments (Noun – plural)
Pronunciation: PREE-kur-sers
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *praecursor* (“forerunner”), from *prae-* (“before”) + *currere* (“to run”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Precursors are like seeds planted before the garden blooms—they don’t always get the credit, but they start the process. In revolutionary thought, understanding the role of precursors helps us appreciate how ideologies are not born overnight but are built layer by layer.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: forerunners, pioneers, trailblazers, antecedents
Antonyms: successors, followers, descendants, continuators
Usage Examples:
- The Romantic poets were seen as precursors to modern environmental thought.
- These early reformers were the intellectual precursors of the socialist movement.
- In many fields, recognizing the work of precursors gives context to modern innovation.
- The ancient philosophers served as precursors to contemporary ethical debates.
Cultural Reference:
"Every great movement in history has had its precursors—those who saw the light before others could even sense the dawn." — Historical Insight Digest
Think About It:
Why is it important to study the precursors of a movement or ideology when trying to understand its full meaning and impact?
Quick Activity:
Choose one modern social or political movement. Identify and briefly describe two historical precursors that contributed to its development.
Memory Tip:
Think of “precursors” as “pre + runners”—those who run ahead to prepare the path for what’s to come.
Real-World Application:
The concept of precursors is crucial in research, innovation, and politics—recognizing them helps track evolution, credit foundational ideas, and avoid reinventing the wheel.
WORD-8: Affirming
Context:
"The anarchists and their precursors were unique on the political Left in affirming that workers and peasants, grasping the chance that arose to bring an end to centuries of exploitation and tyranny..." - Political Analysis
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Affirming” refers to the act of declaring or asserting something confidently and publicly. It involves expressing strong support or belief in an idea or principle. In the sentence provided, anarchists and their intellectual forerunners are described as affirming—that is, confidently supporting—the potential of ordinary people (workers and peasants) to transform society by challenging centuries of exploitation.
Meaning: Stating something confidently or publicly; asserting support or belief in something (Verb – present participle of “affirm”)
Pronunciation: uh-FUR-ming
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *affirmare*, meaning “to assert, to make steady,” from *ad-* (to) + *firmare* (to make firm)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Affirming” is a word of power—it’s about standing up for what you believe in. Whether in debates, movements, or personal convictions, the ability to affirm something with confidence can shape perceptions and catalyze change.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: asserting, proclaiming, declaring, endorsing
Antonyms: denying, rejecting, refuting, disavowing
Usage Examples:
- The constitution begins by affirming the dignity and rights of all citizens.
- She kept affirming her commitment to social justice in every speech.
- The scientist was careful in affirming that the results were still preliminary.
- Affirming someone’s identity is a powerful gesture of respect and inclusion.
Cultural Reference:
"Affirming the good in others helps to bring it out." — Desmond Tutu
Think About It:
Why is public affirmation of values or beliefs often more powerful than private agreement?
Quick Activity:
Write three positive affirmations you can use daily to boost your confidence or motivation.
Memory Tip:
Remember: to “affirm” is to make something firm by saying it aloud—firm words build strong beliefs.
Real-World Application:
In education, therapy, activism, and leadership, affirming ideas, identities, or values can validate experiences and inspire action. Affirmations are also widely used in personal development to reinforce positivity.
WORD-9: Propaganda
Context:
"The mainstream of anarchist propaganda for more than a century has been anarchist-communism, which argues that property in land, natural resources, and the means of production should be held in mutual control by local communities." - Political Philosophy Commentary
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Propaganda” refers to information, ideas, or messages deliberately spread to promote a particular ideology, cause, or point of view—often with the goal of influencing public opinion. While commonly associated with biased or manipulative content, propaganda can also include sincere advocacy for a cause. In this context, anarchist propaganda refers to organized efforts to communicate the values and goals of anarchist-communism to the public over a long period.
Meaning: Information, especially biased or misleading, used to promote a political cause or ideology (Noun)
Pronunciation: prop-uh-GAN-duh
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *propagare* (“to spread”), popularized by the Catholic Church’s *Congregatio de Propaganda Fide* (Congregation for the Propagation of the Faith) in the 17th century
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Though the term “propaganda” often carries a negative connotation today, it originally referred to the spreading of ideas. What matters is the intention and method: Is it based on truth, or is it manipulative? Be mindful of how language and imagery are used to shape belief.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: publicity, promotion, indoctrination, messaging
Antonyms: truth, information, facts, unbiased reporting
Usage Examples:
- The regime used propaganda to maintain control and suppress dissent.
- Environmental groups often produce propaganda to raise awareness about climate change.
- In wartime, propaganda posters are used to boost morale and recruit soldiers.
- He accused the media of spreading propaganda instead of presenting objective facts.
Cultural Reference:
"All art is propaganda." — George Orwell, highlighting how creative expression often reflects deeper political or ideological messages.
Think About It:
How can you tell the difference between propaganda and genuine education or public awareness campaigns?
Quick Activity:
Find two images or headlines—one clearly propaganda, one factual reporting. What clues helped you decide?
Memory Tip:
Propaganda “propagates” ideas—often with a spin. Think of it as “promo-ganda”: promotional + agenda.
Real-World Application:
Understanding propaganda is essential in media literacy, political analysis, and public discourse—especially in an age of misinformation and algorithm-driven content.
WORD-10: Mutualism
Context:
"These thinkers differed from free-market liberals in their absolute mistrust of American capitalism, and in their emphasis on mutualism." - Political Ideology Commentary
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Mutualism” is a political and economic theory that advocates for reciprocal relationships and cooperation among individuals and communities. It suggests that people should exchange goods and services based on mutual benefit, without the exploitation found in capitalist systems. In anarchist theory, mutualism emphasizes decentralized, voluntary arrangements where individuals and groups support each other equally, often through cooperatives or local exchanges. The term also appears in biology, but in political theory, it carries this strong socio-economic significance.
Meaning: A political and economic theory promoting mutual cooperation and exchange for shared benefit (Noun)
Pronunciation: MYOO-choo-uh-liz-um
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Advanced
Etymology: From Latin *mutuus* meaning “borrowed, exchanged” + *-ism* (the practice or philosophy of)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Mutualism bridges individual freedom with social cooperation. It rejects the extremes of both capitalism and state socialism, envisioning a society where exchange is equitable and voluntary. Think of it as barter evolving into an ethical economy.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: cooperation, reciprocity, collectivism, egalitarianism
Antonyms: capitalism, individualism, exploitation, competition
Usage Examples:
- Pierre-Joseph Proudhon is often credited with developing the theory of mutualism.
- The cooperative was founded on the principles of mutualism and fair exchange.
- Mutualism seeks to eliminate profit-driven systems in favor of community well-being.
- In mutualism, workers control the means of production and trade goods based on value, not profit.
Cultural Reference:
"In a mutualist society, the laborer is not a commodity but a creator of value." — Inspired by the writings of Pierre-Joseph Proudhon
Think About It:
Can mutualism offer a practical alternative to both capitalism and centralized socialism in today’s economy?
Quick Activity:
Imagine your local community operates on mutualist principles. Describe one way it would change how you access goods or services.
Memory Tip:
Mutualism = mutual benefit. If both sides gain fairly, you’re practicing mutualism!
Real-World Application:
Mutualism informs the structure of worker cooperatives, local time banks, and bartering systems—offering models for sustainable, non-exploitative economies.
