✨ 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:
- Conflate
- Sweeping
- Adulterated
- Chashitsu
- Elevation
- Deficits
- Inebriate
- Sleights of hand
- Colonial encounter
- Imbued
WORD-1: Conflate
Context:
"The speaker dangerously conflated immigration with criminal behavior, drawing sharp criticism from human rights groups." - The New York Times
Explanatory Paragraph:
To conflate means to combine two or more ideas, issues, or pieces of information into one, often in a way that causes confusion or misrepresentation. The term is commonly used in debates, journalism, and academic contexts where complex or unrelated things are merged, sometimes incorrectly or manipulatively.
Meaning: To combine different things, especially in a way that blurs distinctions (Verb)
Pronunciation: kun-FLAYT
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin “conflare,” meaning “to blow together, fuse,” from “com-” (together) + “flare” (to blow)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Conflate” is a thinking and writing word. Be cautious—it doesn’t mean “connect,” but more like “muddle together.” Use it when discussing blurred distinctions in arguments, identity, or analysis.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: confuse, blend, fuse, merge, muddle
Antonyms: separate, distinguish, clarify, differentiate, isolate
Usage Examples:
- The article conflates economic hardship with moral failure, which is misleading.
- Many people conflate patriotism with nationalism, though they are quite different.
- It’s important not to conflate criticism of a policy with hatred of a nation.
- The historian was careful not to conflate myth and fact in her analysis.
Cultural Reference:
In media literacy, conflation is often flagged as a tactic in misinformation campaigns—blending facts with half-truths to create emotional responses. - Media Studies Insight
Think About It:
Why do people often conflate complex issues? Is it a matter of convenience, confusion, or manipulation?
Quick Activity:
Identify two different concepts (e.g., freedom and anarchy, criticism and hate). Write a sentence that incorrectly conflates them, then rewrite it to clarify the difference.
Memory Tip:
Conflate = *con* (together) + *flate* (like inflate or blow up) → blowing different ideas into one balloon — which can easily pop under scrutiny.
Real-World Application:
“Conflate” is especially useful in academic writing, public discourse, and journalism. It’s a critical thinking word that signals sloppy logic or intentional merging of things that should remain distinct.
WORD-2: Sweeping
Context:
"The president announced sweeping reforms aimed at overhauling the nation’s healthcare system." - The Washington Post
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Sweeping” is used to describe something that is extensive, wide-reaching, or comprehensive. It often refers to changes, statements, or movements that affect a large area, group, or scope. While it can imply thoroughness and boldness, it may also suggest generalization when used critically. It’s a versatile word that works across politics, law, opinions, and even physical actions like gestures or cleaning.
Meaning: Wide in range or effect; extensive or comprehensive (Adjective)
Pronunciation: SWEE-ping
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Beginner-Intermediate
Etymology: From Old English “swāpan,” meaning “to sweep or move with force” — later extended metaphorically to broad or far-reaching actions
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Think of a broom covering an entire floor — that’s the image of “sweeping.” Whether it's a gesture, a law, or a view, it covers everything. Watch out for “sweeping generalizations” — they’re often too broad and unfair.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: broad, extensive, far-reaching, all-encompassing, overarching
Antonyms: narrow, limited, restricted, specific, partial
Usage Examples:
- The new policy brings sweeping changes to how public education is funded.
- She made a sweeping gesture with her arm to show the vast landscape.
- His sweeping statements ignored the complexity of the issue.
- The detective launched a sweeping investigation across multiple cities.
Cultural Reference:
The phrase “sweeping reform” has been used in headlines to describe major legislative overhauls, such as the New Deal in the U.S. or post-war restructuring in Europe. - Historical Language in Politics
Think About It:
Are sweeping changes always effective, or can they ignore important details in favor of bold gestures?
Quick Activity:
Write two sentences: one using “sweeping” in a positive context (e.g., reform or vision), and one in a critical context (e.g., generalization or assumption).
Memory Tip:
Sweeping = like a broom sweeping across a room — it covers *everything*. Think of a “sweeping view” or “sweeping change.”
Real-World Application:
“Sweeping” is useful in political commentary, writing, and debate. It helps describe large-scale changes or critiques — but should be used carefully to avoid overgeneralization.
WORD-3: Adulterated
Context:
"Authorities seized large quantities of adulterated cooking oil that posed serious health risks to consumers." - The Times of India
Explanatory Paragraph:
Adulterated refers to something that has been made impure or degraded by adding inferior, harmful, or unnecessary substances. Often used in the context of food, medicine, or products, it implies that the original quality has been compromised. The word can also be used metaphorically to describe something that has lost its integrity or purity through corruption or dilution.
Meaning: Made impure by adding inferior or harmful substances (Adjective)
Pronunciation: uh-DUL-tuh-ray-tid
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin “adulterare” meaning “to corrupt,” formed from “ad-” (to) + “alter” (other)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Adulterated is not just about food—it can describe anything spoiled by the addition of corrupting elements. Think of it as “pollution by addition.” Also, look out for the noun form “adulteration.”
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: contaminated, tainted, diluted, corrupted, impure
Antonyms: pure, unadulterated, clean, genuine, uncontaminated
Usage Examples:
- The scandal involved adulterated drugs being sold to hospitals.
- He accused the opposition of spreading adulterated facts to mislead the public.
- Adulterated milk was responsible for a major health crisis in the city.
- The artist felt her vision had been adulterated by commercial interests.
Cultural Reference:
Food adulteration has been a public concern globally, especially in countries like India, where campaigns and mobile testing kits are promoted to detect adulterated items in household groceries. - Public Health Awareness
Think About It:
Is it possible to restore something once it has been adulterated? Can you “purify” trust, creativity, or food once they’re contaminated?
Quick Activity:
Write one sentence describing an adulterated physical product (e.g., food or fuel) and another about something intangible (e.g., values or ideas).
Memory Tip:
Adulterated = “adult” + “rated” — Think of it as something once innocent (like food or water) that’s been corrupted — now “adult-rated” in a negative sense!
Real-World Application:
Understanding “adulterated” is vital in food safety, consumer awareness, and ethical discussions. It’s used in journalism, law, and health contexts to flag compromised integrity.
WORD-4: Chashitsu
Context:
"The chashitsu was nestled in a quiet garden, inviting guests into a space of stillness and ceremony." - Kyoto Cultural Journal
Explanatory Paragraph:
Chashitsu is a Japanese term meaning "tea room." It refers to a space, often small and simply decorated, specifically designed for conducting traditional Japanese tea ceremonies (chanoyu). A chashitsu emphasizes harmony, tranquility, respect, and aesthetic simplicity. The layout, materials, and atmosphere all contribute to a setting that invites mindfulness and contemplation.
Meaning: A traditional Japanese tea room designed for tea ceremonies (Noun)
Pronunciation: CHA-shee-tsoo
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Advanced/Cultural
Etymology: From Japanese 茶室 — “cha” (tea) + “shitsu” (room)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Chashitsu is not just a physical space—it’s a symbolic one. Think of it as a “temple of tea,” where architecture and ritual meet to cultivate peace. It’s a wonderful term for exploring cultural nuance and the aesthetics of simplicity.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: tea room, ceremonial space, meditation room (contextual)
Antonyms: multipurpose hall, banquet room, informal space
Usage Examples:
- The chashitsu was constructed using cedar, bamboo, and paper to reflect natural beauty.
- Entering the chashitsu requires a bow, symbolizing humility and respect.
- She studied the architecture of historic chashitsu in Kyoto for her thesis on Zen aesthetics.
- The chashitsu serves not only tea, but tradition, silence, and serenity.
Cultural Reference:
Chashitsu designs follow the philosophy of *wabi-sabi* — the beauty of imperfection and impermanence — deeply embedded in Japanese tea culture and Zen Buddhism. - Japanese Aesthetic Philosophy
Think About It:
What would it mean to create a modern-day “chashitsu” in your life — a space devoted to mindfulness, respect, and ritual?
Quick Activity:
Sketch or describe your ideal chashitsu: What materials, colors, or symbols would you include to reflect peace and simplicity?
Memory Tip:
“Cha” = tea + “shitsu” = room → Chashitsu = *tea room*. Think of a calm, wooden room where silence is part of the ritual.
Real-World Application:
Understanding “chashitsu” enhances your grasp of Japanese art, Zen philosophy, and intercultural design. It’s a perfect example of how language carries cultural depth and values.
WORD-5: Elevation
Context:
"The elevation in his tone suggested a growing sense of urgency and authority." - The Atlantic
Explanatory Paragraph:
Elevation refers to the act or result of lifting something higher — physically, emotionally, or metaphorically. It can describe height above sea level, a person’s rise in status or rank, or even a moral or spiritual uplift. The word carries both literal and symbolic weight, often suggesting improvement, ascent, or distinction.
Meaning: The action or fact of raising something or someone to a higher position or level (Noun)
Pronunciation: eh-luh-VAY-shun
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Beginner-Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin “elevatio,” from “elevare” meaning “to lift up” — composed of “ex-” (out) + “levare” (to raise)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Elevation isn’t just about mountains! It’s a powerful metaphor — for rising status, inner growth, or upliftment. It’s also used in architecture, mood, and moral discourse. Watch how tone, context, and discipline shift the word’s flavor.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: rise, uplift, height, ascent, promotion
Antonyms: decline, drop, demotion, descent, lowering
Usage Examples:
- The temple is situated at a high elevation above the valley.
- Her elevation to the board of directors was widely celebrated.
- The speech brought an emotional elevation to the crowd.
- Elevation of thought is the foundation of all great philosophy.
Cultural Reference:
In spiritual contexts, “elevation” is associated with enlightenment, ascension, or transcendence — seen in texts like the Bhagavad Gita and Dante’s *Paradiso*. - Literary & Spiritual Symbolism
Think About It:
What does true elevation mean to you — a rise in title, purpose, or awareness?
Quick Activity:
List three forms of elevation — physical, social, emotional. Use the word in a sentence for each. Reflect on how context alters meaning.
Memory Tip:
Elevation = “elevator” + “-tion” — think of anything rising: in height, hope, or honor. It's all about upward movement.
Real-World Application:
“Elevation” is common in geography, architecture, leadership, and even mood descriptions. It’s a flexible word that brings depth to both academic and creative writing.
WORD-6: Deficits
Context:
"The country is struggling with rising trade and budget deficits that threaten economic stability." - The Financial Times
Explanatory Paragraph:
Deficits refer to shortfalls or gaps — usually between what is needed and what is available. Most commonly used in economics to describe when expenses exceed income (e.g., budget deficits), the word also applies in health (attention deficits), education (learning deficits), or any scenario involving lack or insufficiency. Deficits point to areas where improvement, balance, or support is required.
Meaning: The amount by which something is too small or falls short, especially in finances or resources (Noun - plural)
Pronunciation: DEH-fuh-sits
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Beginner-Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin “deficere” meaning “to fail” or “to be lacking,” through French “déficit”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Deficit = shortfall. In everyday terms: you're spending more than you earn. This word comes up in finance, politics, and psychology. Remember: a *deficit* is a gap — something is *missing* or *lacking*.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: shortfall, shortage, gap, insufficiency, loss
Antonyms: surplus, excess, abundance, gain, profit
Usage Examples:
- The government is working to reduce fiscal deficits through spending cuts.
- Learning deficits caused by school closures continue to affect student performance.
- The team’s energy deficit showed in the final minutes of the match.
- Deficits in attention can impact a child’s academic progress.
Cultural Reference:
The term “twin deficits” in economics refers to a nation experiencing both a budget deficit and a trade deficit, often discussed in global financial reports. - Macroeconomic Discourse
Think About It:
Do all deficits need to be eliminated, or can they serve a purpose in the short term — such as investment or recovery?
Quick Activity:
List two types of deficits you hear about in daily life (e.g., budget, emotional, skill-based). Write one sentence for each using the word accurately.
Memory Tip:
Deficit = *defi* (fail/lack) + *cit* (like “sit out”) → You’re “sitting out” on something you don’t have enough of.
Real-World Application:
“Deficits” is a high-utility word in economics, health, education, and media. Recognizing what’s lacking helps in diagnostics, planning, and problem-solving across fields.
WORD-7: Inebriate
Context:
"The officer gently guided the inebriate away from the traffic, concerned for his safety." - The Guardian
Explanatory Paragraph:
Inebriate means to make someone drunk or intoxicated, usually with alcohol. As a verb, it refers to the act of causing inebriation. As a noun, it can describe a person who is habitually drunk, and as an adjective, it can describe a state of intoxication. The term has both clinical and literary uses, ranging from medical discussions to poetic metaphors of emotional or spiritual intoxication.
Meaning: To intoxicate or make drunk (Verb); a drunk person (Noun); intoxicated (Adjective)
Pronunciation: ih-NEE-bree-ayt
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin “inebriatus,” past participle of “inebriāre” meaning “to make drunk,” from “in-” (into) + “ebrius” (drunk)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Though formal and slightly old-fashioned, “inebriate” is a strong alternative to “drunk.” In literature, it may even be used metaphorically—such as being inebriated by love or beauty. Be mindful of tone: clinical, poetic, or judgmental depending on usage.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: intoxicate, drunk, tipsy, high, befuddle
Antonyms: sober, abstain, detoxify, disintoxicate, clear-headed
Usage Examples:
- The man appeared inebriated and was unable to walk in a straight line.
- The poet wrote about being inebriated with joy and longing.
- The clinic treats chronic inebriates struggling with alcohol dependence.
- Even a small amount of alcohol can inebriate someone who rarely drinks.
Cultural Reference:
In ancient texts and Romantic poetry, “inebriate” is often used metaphorically to describe being overwhelmed by passion or emotion — such as in Keats' line: “Inebriate of air, I am.” - Literary Usage
Think About It:
Is inebriation always a negative state? Can people be “drunk” on emotions, power, or ideas, and what are the consequences?
Quick Activity:
Write one literal and one metaphorical sentence using “inebriate.” Reflect on how the word shifts tone depending on context.
Memory Tip:
Inebriate = *in* (into) + *ebriate* (from Latin *ebrius*, drunk) → Think “drawn into drunkenness” — whether from wine, or wonder.
Real-World Application:
Understanding “inebriate” helps in formal, literary, and psychological contexts. It’s used in law enforcement, literature, and medicine — and also adds poetic depth when describing emotional or sensory overload.
WORD-8: Sleights of Hand
Context:
"The magician amazed the audience with sleights of hand so swift they seemed supernatural." - National Geographic Documentary
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Sleights of hand” refers to clever and precise hand movements used to trick or deceive, especially in magic or illusion. The phrase can also be used metaphorically to describe subtle manipulation or cunning in non-magical contexts — such as politics, business, or debate. It implies a level of skill, quickness, and misdirection that impresses or deceives the observer.
Meaning: Skillful, deceptive hand movements; clever manipulation (Noun phrase)
Pronunciation: slites of hand
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Middle English “sleghth” (cunning or craft), rooted in Old Norse “slœgð” meaning “cleverness” — paired with “hand” to imply manual dexterity in deception
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This phrase is often mispronounced or misunderstood — it’s not “slight” (small), but “sleight” (skill). Use “sleight of hand” to describe both literal magic tricks and figurative mental or rhetorical manipulation.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: trickery, deception, manipulation, magic, misdirection
Antonyms: transparency, honesty, straightforwardness, openness
Usage Examples:
- She pulled the coin from behind his ear with a classic sleight of hand.
- The illusionist’s sleights of hand were so smooth, even experts were baffled.
- The politician’s rhetorical sleight of hand diverted attention from the real issue.
- With a sleight of hand, he replaced the card before anyone noticed.
Cultural Reference:
The phrase is foundational to the art of close-up magic, used by performers like David Copperfield and Dynamo, who rely on sleights of hand to create seemingly impossible feats. - Performance Arts
Think About It:
Can sleights of hand be ethical if used to entertain? What about when they’re used to distract or manipulate in real life?
Quick Activity:
Write a short paragraph where someone uses a sleight of hand — literally in magic or metaphorically in speech. Identify what was hidden or misdirected.
Memory Tip:
“Sleight” means cleverness — not “slight.” Think: *Sleight = Skill.* Picture a magician’s hand: quick, smooth, and tricky — that’s the magic of sleights of hand.
Real-World Application:
This phrase is useful in discussions of performance, persuasion, advertising, and even politics — wherever skillful distraction or manipulation is at play.
WORD-9: Colonial Encounter
Context:
"The novel critically explores the colonial encounter between European traders and indigenous communities in 18th-century West Africa." - Postcolonial Literary Review
Explanatory Paragraph:
Colonial encounter refers to the initial and ongoing interactions between colonizers and the colonized. These encounters were marked by cultural exchange, domination, resistance, exploitation, and transformation. While some exchanges were commercial or diplomatic, many involved violence, appropriation, and lasting structural inequalities. The term is widely used in history, anthropology, literature, and postcolonial studies to examine the consequences of imperial expansion and cultural contact.
Meaning: The meeting or clash between colonizing powers and indigenous or local peoples (Noun phrase)
Pronunciation: kuh-LOH-nee-uhl en-KOWN-tur
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Advanced (Interdisciplinary)
Etymology: From “colony” (from Latin *colonia* – a settlement) and “encounter” (from Latin *incontrare*, meaning “to meet or confront”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This is a powerful phrase in postcolonial discourse. It signals not just historical meetings, but deep imbalances in power, culture, and knowledge. Use it to frame both literal historical events and their metaphorical or narrative representations in texts.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: imperial encounter, colonial contact, colonial engagement, conquest, cultural clash
Antonyms: postcolonial autonomy, self-determination, equal exchange, independence movement
Usage Examples:
- The museum exhibit documents the colonial encounter through trade artifacts and resistance tools.
- Many African and Asian novels examine how the colonial encounter reshaped identity and language.
- The colonial encounter was not just military—it was also linguistic, educational, and psychological.
- Through the lens of the colonial encounter, scholars re-examine assumptions about history and civilization.
Cultural Reference:
Works like Chinua Achebe’s *Things Fall Apart* and Amitav Ghosh’s *Sea of Poppies* offer rich literary portrayals of the colonial encounter — depicting its trauma, hybridity, and cultural entanglements. - Postcolonial Literature
Think About It:
Can we ever truly understand a colonial encounter without centering the voices of those who were colonized?
Quick Activity:
List two historical examples of colonial encounters. Identify who the colonizers and the colonized were, and describe one key outcome of each interaction.
Memory Tip:
“Colonial” = related to colonizing; “Encounter” = a meeting, often unexpected or unequal. Together, it signals a charged and transformative interaction between vastly unequal powers.
Real-World Application:
Understanding “colonial encounter” is essential in global studies, literature, politics, and education. It shapes discussions on reparations, decolonization, identity, and cultural legacy in former colonies and empires.
WORD-10: Imbued
Context:
"Her voice was imbued with a quiet strength that commanded respect without raising volume." - The New Yorker
Explanatory Paragraph:
Imbued means to be deeply filled, inspired, or permeated with a feeling, quality, or idea. It is often used in a figurative sense, suggesting that something intangible—like a belief, emotion, or spirit—has soaked into a person, work of art, or atmosphere. Whether it’s a painting imbued with sorrow or a leader imbued with conviction, the word suggests something profound and lasting.
Meaning: Filled or saturated with a quality, emotion, or idea (Verb – past participle)
Pronunciation: im-BYOOD
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin “imbuere,” meaning “to moisten” or “saturate,” through Old French “embuer” — now extended metaphorically
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Imbued” has poetic power. It's not just about being influenced — it’s about being soaked in something abstract. Think of it like emotional or intellectual ink that stains you from within.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: infused, filled, suffused, saturated, steeped
Antonyms: emptied, drained, devoid, stripped, cleansed
Usage Examples:
- The artwork was imbued with nostalgia and a sense of quiet longing.
- She was imbued with a sense of duty that guided her actions.
- The novel is imbued with magical realism, blending the ordinary and the surreal.
- His speech was imbued with hope, despite the grim circumstances.
Cultural Reference:
In many spiritual traditions, objects are said to be imbued with sacred energy — such as a temple imbued with peace or a talisman imbued with protection. - Cultural and Religious Contexts
Think About It:
What emotions or values do you wish to be imbued with — and how can those shape your actions and impact on others?
Quick Activity:
Choose an object (a song, a photograph, a space). Write a sentence describing what it is “imbued” with. Is it memory? Silence? Passion?
Memory Tip:
Imbued = *imbibe ideas or feelings* → like a sponge soaking up water, you are mentally or emotionally filled with something powerful.
Real-World Application:
“Imbued” adds elegance and depth to writing about emotion, creativity, or leadership. It’s a perfect word for essays, poetry, analysis, and self-expression.
