✨ 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:
- Fluctuating
- Furthermore
- Steady
- Dimensions
- Fewer
- Convenient
- Constituted
- Dimensions
- Taxpayers
- Rotted
WORD-1: Fluctuating
Context:
"The values of different textiles were also more stable than the fluctuating values of coins." - Historical Economic Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "fluctuating" describes something that is constantly changing, especially in an unpredictable or unstable way. When something fluctuates, it does not remain steady or consistent but moves up and down or back and forth. In the context of the sentence, it implies that coin values were unstable and kept changing, unlike textiles which had more consistent worth.
Meaning: Changing frequently or irregularly (Adjective)
Pronunciation: FLUK-choo-ay-ting
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Beginner
Etymology: From Latin "fluctuare," meaning "to wave" or "to flow like a wave."
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This is a very common adjective used in economics, weather discussions, and day-to-day conversations to show that something is not fixed or reliable. Useful for describing prices, emotions, stock markets, or even moods.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: varying, shifting, changing, unstable, wavering
Antonyms: steady, constant, stable, unchanging, fixed
Usage Examples:
- Gas prices have been fluctuating wildly due to international tensions.
- Her mood kept fluctuating during the stressful interview process.
- Stock markets are often influenced by fluctuating investor confidence.
- The temperature has been fluctuating dramatically this week.
Cultural Reference:
"The only constant in life is change" - Heraclitus, which reflects the idea behind 'fluctuating.'
Think About It:
How do fluctuating prices affect people's financial decisions and long-term planning?
Quick Activity:
List three areas of life (e.g., emotions, economy, weather) where things frequently fluctuate. Describe how it affects daily decisions in each area.
Memory Tip:
Think of "fluctuating" like a "float" in a wave — it goes up and down just like prices or moods!
Real-World Application:
Understanding the word "fluctuating" is essential in business and finance, where it is used to describe variable interest rates, currency values, and market trends.
WORD-2: Furthermore
Context:
"Furthermore, a full bolt had a particular value. If consumers cut textiles into smaller pieces to buy or sell something worth less than a full bolt, that, too, greatly lessened the value of the textiles." - Historical Economic Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Furthermore" is a transition word used to add more information or to emphasize an additional point. It signals that what follows builds upon or supports the idea previously mentioned. In the given context, the author is adding a significant point about the value of a full bolt of textile to expand on the explanation regarding how textile pieces lost value when cut.
Meaning: In addition; besides (Adverb)
Pronunciation: FUR-thur-more
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Beginner
Etymology: From Middle English "furthermore," combining "further" and "more" to reinforce the idea of continuation or addition.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This is a formal connector used in writing and speeches to show logical progression. It's great for essays, reports, and structured answers where you're adding on to a previous point.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: moreover, in addition, besides, also, additionally
Antonyms: however, on the other hand, nevertheless, conversely
Usage Examples:
- She is an excellent researcher; furthermore, she has published multiple papers in top journals.
- Furthermore, the data confirms the hypothesis with high accuracy.
- The city is a popular tourist destination. Furthermore, it offers affordable accommodations.
- He is not only punctual but, furthermore, very dependable.
Cultural Reference:
"Furthermore" is commonly used in academic writing, especially in research papers and formal essays to transition smoothly between points, just like "Moreover" and "In addition."
Think About It:
Why is it important to use connectors like "furthermore" in formal writing or presentations? How do they improve communication?
Quick Activity:
Write two sentences about your favorite book or movie. Start the second sentence with "Furthermore" to add a supporting point.
Memory Tip:
“Furthermore” helps you go further with more information—just remember: further + more = furthermore!
Real-World Application:
Using "furthermore" can elevate your written and spoken English in formal environments like debates, presentations, academic essays, and professional emails.
WORD-3: Steady
Context:
"...could weigh as much as 4 kg. Furthermore, the dimensions of a bolt of silk held remarkably steady from the third to the tenth century: 56 cm wide and 12 m long." - Historical Economic Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "steady" refers to something that is constant, regular, and not subject to sudden changes. In the context of the sentence, it suggests that the dimensions of a bolt of silk remained unchanged and consistent over several centuries. This implies a sense of stability, reliability, and standardization in textile production during that time.
Meaning: Firmly fixed, constant, or unchanging (Adjective)
Pronunciation: STED-ee
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Beginner
Etymology: From Old English "stǣdig," meaning "firm, fixed, steadfast."
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This word is especially useful for describing physical consistency (like a pace, pattern, or structure), emotional control, or stable conditions over time. It’s a core descriptor in both everyday and academic writing.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: stable, consistent, unchanging, reliable, constant
Antonyms: unstable, erratic, fluctuating, variable, shaky
Usage Examples:
- The patient showed a steady improvement after the new treatment.
- The economy has seen steady growth over the last decade.
- He kept a steady hand while painting the intricate design.
- Despite the chaos, she maintained a steady voice during the speech.
Cultural Reference:
In sports like archery or shooting, a "steady hand" is essential for accuracy—this is where the term is often associated with focus and discipline.
Think About It:
In a fast-changing world, how important is it to have steady values or routines?
Quick Activity:
Describe something in your life (a habit, relationship, or situation) that has remained steady for a long time. How has that consistency helped you?
Memory Tip:
Think of "steady" as the opposite of "shaky"—something you can rely on, like a steady bridge over a river.
Real-World Application:
"Steady" is used in multiple fields—from finance (steady returns), to health (steady heartbeat), to relationships (steady partner)—indicating reliability and continuity.
WORD-4: Fewer
Context:
"But textiles had some advantages over coins. For a start, textile production was widespread and there were fewer problems with the supply of textiles." - Historical Economic Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Fewer" is a comparative adjective used to refer to a smaller number of countable things. It contrasts with "less," which is used for uncountable quantities. In the context provided, the sentence highlights that textile production faced a smaller number of issues compared to coin production or circulation, emphasizing its reliability and widespread nature.
Meaning: A smaller number of (Comparative Adjective)
Pronunciation: FYOO-er
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Beginner
Etymology: Derived from Old English "fēawra," the comparative form of "few."
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Fewer" is often confused with "less." Use "fewer" for countable nouns (e.g., apples, books, problems) and "less" for uncountable ones (e.g., water, money, time). Mastering this distinction helps in writing precise and grammatically accurate English.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: a smaller number of, reduced, diminished, not as many
Antonyms: more, greater number of, numerous, increased
Usage Examples:
- There are fewer students in the class this year.
- He made fewer mistakes on the second test.
- Fewer cars on the road means less pollution.
- The new rules resulted in fewer complaints from customers.
Cultural Reference:
The famous grammar rule "10 items or fewer" seen in supermarket express checkout lanes has sparked public debates over correct usage, reinforcing the importance of proper comparative word choice.
Think About It:
Why do you think language rules like the difference between "fewer" and "less" matter in both spoken and written communication?
Quick Activity:
Write three sentences comparing two situations using "fewer" correctly (e.g., fewer books, fewer meetings, fewer errors).
Memory Tip:
If you can count it, use “fewer.” Fewer pencils, fewer problems—just remember: “fewer” is for things you can number.
Real-World Application:
Using "fewer" correctly improves clarity in writing, especially in formal contexts like academic papers, reports, and professional communication.
WORD-5: Convenient
Context:
"Coins did have certain advantages: they were durable, recognisable and provided a convenient medium of exchange, especially for smaller transactions." - Historical Economic Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "convenient" describes something that is easy to use, saves time or effort, and suits one's needs or purposes. In the sentence, it highlights that coins served as an efficient and practical way to carry out exchanges, especially for minor or everyday purchases. Their portability and standardized value made them an ideal tool in trade and commerce.
Meaning: Fitting in well with a person’s needs, activities, or plans; easy to use or access (Adjective)
Pronunciation: kuhn-VEEN-yuhnt
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Beginner
Etymology: From Latin "convenientem," meaning "suitable, fitting, or proper," from the verb "convenire" (to come together, to be suitable).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Convenient” is a word that is frequently used in both daily life and formal writing. Whether you’re talking about technology, locations, or services, it helps convey ease, practicality, and efficiency. Watch for its tone—it can also carry a subtle criticism if something is 'convenient' but lacks effort or sincerity.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: handy, practical, easy, accessible, useful
Antonyms: inconvenient, difficult, impractical, inaccessible, awkward
Usage Examples:
- Online banking is a convenient way to manage your finances.
- The hotel is conveniently located near the airport.
- Microwave ovens provide a convenient method for heating food.
- He chose the more convenient option, even though it was more expensive.
Cultural Reference:
In the age of "on-demand" services—like food delivery apps, ride-sharing, and online streaming—the word “convenient” has become a defining term of modern consumer culture.
Think About It:
Do you think our increasing dependence on convenience makes us more efficient or more complacent?
Quick Activity:
Write three things in your daily life that you find convenient and explain why they are helpful.
Memory Tip:
Remember: "convenient" is like "convenience store" — small, easy, quick, and right around the corner!
Real-World Application:
"Convenient" is often used in advertising to promote products that save time or simplify tasks—highlighting a key selling point in today’s fast-paced world.
WORD-6: Constituted
Context:
"...continuing shortage of copper meant that government mints could not produce enough coins for the entire empire, to the extent that for most of the dynasty’s history, coins constituted only a tenth of the money supply." - Historical Economic Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "constituted" refers to something that forms, composes, or makes up a particular whole. In this context, it tells us that coins made up only a small portion—specifically one-tenth—of the total money in circulation during that historical period. It highlights the proportion or structural composition of a system, especially in official or analytical contexts.
Meaning: Made up or formed (Verb – past tense of “constitute”)
Pronunciation: KON-sti-toot-ed
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin "constituere," meaning "to set up, establish," from "com-" (together) and "statuere" (to set).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Constituted” is a formal word used often in academic, historical, or legal writing. Think of it as a stronger or more technical way of saying “made up” or “formed.” It’s ideal when describing the components of systems, policies, or populations.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: comprised, formed, made up, composed, represented
Antonyms: excluded, removed, destroyed, separated, dismantled
Usage Examples:
- Women constituted more than half of the workforce in the company.
- These documents constitute a formal agreement between the parties involved.
- Volunteers constituted the majority of the team during the crisis.
- The final year students constituted the main participants of the research project.
Cultural Reference:
The U.S. Constitution, often referred to in legal and historical contexts, literally "constitutes" the foundation of American law and governance—showing the root meaning of the word as "to establish."
Think About It:
Why do you think formal words like “constituted” are often used in academic or historical texts instead of simpler words like “made up”?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence describing what constitutes your daily routine—mention 3 activities that make up your day.
Memory Tip:
“Constituted” sounds like “constructed”—both relate to how something is built or formed.
Real-World Application:
In research, law, economics, and reports, “constituted” is useful when defining the proportion or structure of something, such as what constitutes a valid contract, a majority, or a financial system.
WORD-7: Dimensions
Context:
"...could weigh as much as 4 kg. Furthermore, the dimensions of a bolt of silk held remarkably steady from the third to the tenth century: 56 cm wide and 12 m long." - Historical Economic Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "dimensions" refers to measurable aspects of an object, such as its length, width, and height. In this context, the word is used to describe the specific size of a bolt of silk, emphasizing that its shape and measurements remained constant for centuries. It can also be used metaphorically to describe aspects or elements of an idea or issue.
Meaning: Measurable extents such as length, width, height, or depth (Noun – plural)
Pronunciation: dih-MEN-shuns
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Beginner
Etymology: From Latin "dimensio," from "dimetiri" meaning “to measure out.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Dimensions” is commonly used in both scientific and everyday contexts. It helps describe physical properties, such as the size of an object, but can also be used figuratively (e.g., "moral dimensions of an issue"). It’s an essential word for both technical and abstract discussions.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: measurements, proportions, size, extent, scale
Antonyms: (Contextual) uniformity, sameness, indistinction
Usage Examples:
- The table’s dimensions are 2 meters long, 1 meter wide, and 0.75 meters high.
- We need to consider the emotional dimensions of this decision.
- The blueprint includes all necessary dimensions for construction.
- Science fiction often explores dimensions beyond the physical world.
Cultural Reference:
In the movie *Interstellar*, the concept of multiple dimensions—beyond time and space—is explored in a fascinating blend of science and imagination.
Think About It:
What are some “non-physical” dimensions of your life—such as emotional, intellectual, or spiritual—that you feel are often overlooked?
Quick Activity:
Pick any object near you. Write down its approximate dimensions (length, width, and height), then write a sentence using those numbers.
Memory Tip:
“Dimensions” = “Measurements” — both words have **ion** and relate to how big or small something is!
Real-World Application:
"Dimensions" are essential in fields like architecture, engineering, fashion, interior design, and even in philosophical discussions—making it a highly versatile word.
WORD-8: Obligations
Context:
"...were required to pay grain to the government as a share of their annual tax obligations, and official salaries were expressed in weights of grain." - Historical Economic Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Obligations" refer to duties or responsibilities that someone is legally or morally required to fulfill. In this sentence, the word indicates the tax responsibilities that individuals had to meet by paying grain. The idea is that these were not optional—they were mandated commitments owed to the government, much like taxes today.
Meaning: Duties or responsibilities that a person is bound to fulfill, often legally or morally (Noun – plural)
Pronunciation: ob-li-GAY-shuns
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Beginner
Etymology: From Latin "obligatio," meaning "a binding," from "obligare" – to bind or tie.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This word frequently appears in legal, financial, and social contexts. Whether it’s tax obligations, familial duties, or ethical responsibilities, understanding “obligations” is key to grasping what people owe to others or institutions. It’s also useful in essays dealing with rights and responsibilities.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: duties, responsibilities, commitments, liabilities, requirements
Antonyms: freedoms, exemptions, liberties, choices, options
Usage Examples:
- Employees must fulfill their contractual obligations to receive bonuses.
- Parents have moral obligations to care for their children.
- He couldn’t travel because of prior obligations at work.
- Loan obligations must be repaid on time to maintain good credit.
Cultural Reference:
In many cultures, social and familial obligations are central to community life—like caring for elderly parents or participating in community festivals—even when not legally enforced.
Think About It:
What do you believe is the most important obligation each person has in society—and why?
Quick Activity:
List three obligations you fulfill in your personal or academic life. Write one sentence for each explaining why it’s important.
Memory Tip:
Think of “obligation” as something you’re *obliged* to do—like paying rent or submitting homework!
Real-World Application:
Understanding “obligations” is essential in legal contracts, job descriptions, and everyday life—from taxes and bills to social responsibilities and civic duties.
WORD-9: Taxpayers
Context:
"...but taxpayers were required to pay grain to the government as a share of their annual tax obligations, and official salaries were expressed in weights of grain." - Historical Economic Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Taxpayers" are individuals or entities who are legally obligated to pay taxes to a government authority. In the given context, it refers to the people who had to give a portion of their grain harvest to the government as a form of tax. The term emphasizes the role of citizens in supporting public institutions and state functions through regular contributions.
Meaning: People or organizations who are responsible for paying taxes (Noun – plural)
Pronunciation: TAKS-pay-erz
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Beginner
Etymology: From "tax" (Latin: taxare – to assess) + "payer" (from Old French "paier," meaning to pay).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This is a practical term often used in economics, governance, and public policy. While its modern use mostly refers to those who pay income tax or sales tax, historically, even goods like grain or labor counted as tax payments. Understanding who taxpayers are is key to understanding how governments are funded.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: contributors, citizens, filers, revenue sources
Antonyms: tax evaders, dependents, non-contributors
Usage Examples:
- All working adults are considered taxpayers in most countries.
- Taxpayers fund public services like education, roads, and healthcare.
- The government announced a new policy to provide relief for low-income taxpayers.
- Ancient empires often required taxpayers to contribute crops instead of money.
Cultural Reference:
Every year, April 15 is known as "Tax Day" in the United States—an important deadline for taxpayers to file their annual returns, symbolizing civic duty and financial responsibility.
Think About It:
Do you believe taxpayers should have more say in how their taxes are spent? Why or why not?
Quick Activity:
Make a list of five services or infrastructures in your city that are supported by taxpayers. Next to each, write a short reason why it is important.
Memory Tip:
“Taxpayers” are the people who *pay tax*—just split the word into “tax” + “payers” to remember!
Real-World Application:
Understanding the role of taxpayers is crucial in debates around public spending, national budgets, welfare systems, and civic responsibilities in democracies and economies worldwide.
WORD-10: Rotted
Context:
"Grain, because it rotted easily, was not used nearly as much as coins and textiles, but taxpayers were required to pay grain to the government as a share of their annual tax obligations, and official salaries were expressed in weights of grain." - Historical Economic Text
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "rotted" refers to the natural process of decay or decomposition, typically due to bacteria, fungi, or moisture. In the sentence, it highlights the perishability of grain, which made it less reliable for long-term storage or trade compared to more durable items like coins or textiles. This characteristic limited grain’s utility as a medium of exchange, even though it was still used for tax payments and salaries.
Meaning: Decayed or decomposed due to natural processes (Verb – past tense of “rot”)
Pronunciation: ROT-ed
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Beginner
Etymology: From Old English "rotian," meaning "to decay or putrefy."
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This verb is commonly used when talking about food, organic materials, or natural decay. It carries a strong negative tone, often symbolizing waste or neglect. It's useful for descriptive writing, especially in environmental, agricultural, or biological contexts.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: decayed, decomposed, spoiled, perished, putrefied
Antonyms: preserved, fresh, unspoiled, sound, intact
Usage Examples:
- The fruit rotted in the sun because it wasn't stored properly.
- Wood that stays damp for too long will eventually rot.
- He discovered that the potatoes in the cellar had rotted.
- The old house was abandoned, and its beams had rotted through.
Cultural Reference:
The phrase “a rotten apple spoils the bunch” is widely used in English-speaking cultures to imply that one bad element can corrupt others, showing how deeply ingrained the idea of rot is in both literal and metaphorical language.
Think About It:
Why do you think humans have historically searched for ways to preserve food and prevent it from rotting? How has that changed our societies?
Quick Activity:
Name three types of food that rot quickly if not stored properly. For each, suggest one method of preservation.
Memory Tip:
“Rotted” sounds like “rotting”—just imagine fruit turning brown and mushy to recall the word!
Real-World Application:
Understanding “rotted” is crucial in agriculture, food science, and even environmental studies where the decomposition process is a key concern in waste management and sustainability.
