✨ 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:
- Innate
- Apprentice
- Opaque
- Persuasive data
- Instinctive
- Broca’s area
- Superficial
- Bugaboos
- Universal grammar
- Pooh-poohed
WORD-1: Innate
Context:
"Starting in 1957, [Noam Chomsky] proclaimed a new doctrine: Language, that most human of all attributes, was innate." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "innate" refers to something that is inborn or naturally present from the beginning, rather than acquired or learned later. In the context of Chomsky's theory, it means that the ability to use language is hardwired into the human brain, not something that humans pick up only through experience. This concept is crucial in linguistics and cognitive science, highlighting the built-in nature of certain human capabilities.
Meaning: Inborn; natural, existing from birth (Adjective)
Pronunciation: ih-NAYT
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Moderate
Etymology: From Latin "innatus", meaning "inborn", from "in-" (in) + "natus" (born)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Think of "innate" as something you're born with, like reflexes or a natural talent. It contrasts with skills that are acquired through effort or learning.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: inborn, inherent, intrinsic, natural, congenital
Antonyms: acquired, learned, external, extrinsic
Usage Examples:
- She has an innate sense of rhythm that makes her an excellent dancer.
- The scientist argued that morality is an innate part of human nature.
- His innate curiosity led him to explore remote parts of the world.
- Innate immunity protects us from pathogens from the moment we're born.
Cultural Reference:
"The belief in innate ideas was famously advocated by philosopher René Descartes, who argued that certain concepts exist naturally within the human mind." - Philosophy 101
Think About It:
Do you believe creativity is an innate gift, or can it be nurtured and learned through practice?
Quick Activity:
List three abilities or qualities you think are innate in humans, and three that are acquired. Discuss why you classified them that way.
Memory Tip:
Remember “innate” by breaking it into “in + nate” — what’s “in” you from the time you're “born” (natus = born).
Real-World Application:
Understanding the concept of "innate" is essential in debates about nature vs. nurture — for example, whether leadership skills are innate or developed through experience.
WORD-2: Apprentice
Context:
"The grammatical faculty was built into the infant brain, and your average 3-year-old was not a mere apprentice in the great enterprise of absorbing English from his or her parents, but a 'linguistic genius.'" - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "apprentice" traditionally refers to a person who is learning a trade or skill from a more experienced person, often through hands-on experience and guided instruction. In the given context, the term is used metaphorically to suggest that children aren't simply passive learners of language (like apprentices slowly picking up skills), but instead possess an extraordinary, almost automatic capacity for language, surpassing the learning process expected of an apprentice.
Meaning: A person who is learning a trade or skill from someone experienced (Noun)
Pronunciation: uh-PREN-tis
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Moderate
Etymology: From Old French "aprentis", based on Latin "apprehendere" meaning "to grasp or seize"
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Think of an apprentice as someone who learns by doing, often under the guidance of a mentor. It's a key concept in vocational training and can also be used metaphorically for any learning phase.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: trainee, novice, beginner, intern, learner
Antonyms: expert, master, professional, teacher
Usage Examples:
- She worked as an apprentice in a bakery to learn the art of pastry making.
- The young carpenter started his career as an apprentice under a skilled artisan.
- In his apprentice years, he gained valuable experience that later helped him open his own studio.
- The software company runs a summer program for apprentices looking to enter the tech industry.
Cultural Reference:
"In medieval Europe, apprenticeships were the cornerstone of education in trades, often lasting for years under a guild system." - History of Education Quarterly
Think About It:
In what areas of your life do you still consider yourself an apprentice, and what steps are you taking to become a master?
Quick Activity:
Match the following professions with what an apprentice might learn in each: chef, electrician, tailor, potter. Then write one sentence using "apprentice" with one of them.
Memory Tip:
Remember: An *apprentice* is "a person learning" — the word sounds like “a practice” because they’re practicing under someone!
Real-World Application:
Many modern industries, including IT, construction, and culinary arts, use apprenticeship programs to provide hands-on training and mentorship, preparing newcomers for professional roles.
WORD-3: Opaque
Context:
"Since this message was couched in terms of Chomskyan theoretical linguistics, in discourse so opaque that it was nearly incomprehensible even to some scholars, many people did not hear it." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "opaque" describes something that is not transparent—literally, it cannot be seen through, and figuratively, it cannot be easily understood. In the context of the sentence, it means that the language used in the message was so complex or obscure that it was difficult for even experts to grasp. "Opaque" is often used to refer to writing, speech, or concepts that are confusing or unnecessarily complicated.
Meaning: Difficult to understand or explain; not transparent (Adjective)
Pronunciation: oh-PAYK
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin "opacus" meaning "darkened, shaded"
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Think of “opaque” as the opposite of “clear”—whether it’s about glass, language, or ideas. When a writer or speaker is opaque, the message doesn't get through clearly.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: obscure, unclear, ambiguous, puzzling, cryptic
Antonyms: clear, transparent, obvious, straightforward
Usage Examples:
- The professor’s explanation was so opaque that most students left the lecture confused.
- Corporate legal documents are often written in opaque language that’s hard for the average person to understand.
- The window was painted over, turning it completely opaque.
- Her motivations remained opaque, even to those closest to her.
Cultural Reference:
"T.S. Eliot’s poetry is often criticized for being opaque, filled with dense allusions and symbolic layers." - Modern Poetry Review
Think About It:
When does complex language become opaque, and should communication always aim to be clear?
Quick Activity:
Rewrite a complicated sentence from a technical subject you know in a clearer way. Then, describe whether the original or your version was more opaque and why.
Memory Tip:
“Opaque” sounds like “oh! pack!”—when something’s packed too tightly (like ideas in dense text), you can't see through it. It’s hard to understand!
Real-World Application:
In business, opaque communication can lead to misunderstandings or mistrust. Clear, transparent messaging is often seen as a sign of integrity and professionalism.
WORD-4: Persuasive Data
Context:
"In 'The Language Instinct' he has gathered persuasive data from such diverse fields as cognitive neuroscience, developmental psychology and speech therapy to make his points, and when he disagrees with Mr. Chomsky he tells you so." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Persuasive data" refers to information or evidence that strongly supports an argument or viewpoint. In this context, the author uses a range of data from various scientific disciplines to convincingly argue his case. The term combines the idea of "data" — factual information — with "persuasive" — something that has the power to influence or convince an audience.
Meaning: Data or evidence that effectively convinces others of a particular argument or conclusion (Noun phrase)
Pronunciation: per-SWAY-siv DAY-tuh
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Moderate
Etymology: "Persuasive" from Latin *persuasivus* (convincing), and "data" from Latin *datum* (a thing given)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Whenever you read research or articles, look for “persuasive data” — it’s not just about having numbers or facts, but about how compellingly they are presented and how effectively they support the argument.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: compelling evidence, convincing data, supporting facts, strong proof
Antonyms: weak evidence, unconvincing data, flawed statistics
Usage Examples:
- The marketing team used persuasive data to demonstrate the campaign's success.
- Persuasive data from multiple studies shifted the public’s opinion on the health benefits of meditation.
- The journalist backed her claims with persuasive data from verified sources.
- Without persuasive data, the argument seemed speculative rather than factual.
Cultural Reference:
"Nate Silver’s election forecasts became popular because of the persuasive data models behind them." - FiveThirtyEight
Think About It:
Can data alone be persuasive, or does the way it’s presented matter more?
Quick Activity:
Find a news article or infographic and evaluate whether the data presented is persuasive. Note what makes it compelling or lacking.
Memory Tip:
“Persuasive data” = data that “persuades” you — think of a lawyer using evidence in court to convince a jury.
Real-World Application:
In business, education, and policymaking, persuasive data plays a crucial role in shaping decisions, securing funding, and influencing public opinion.
WORD-5: Instinctive
Context:
"For Mr. Chomsky and Mr. Pinker, somewhere in the human brain there is a complex set of neural circuits that have been programmed with 'super-rules' (making up what Mr. Chomsky calls 'universal grammar'), and that these rules are unconscious and instinctive." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Instinctive" describes something that arises naturally, without needing conscious thought or learning. It refers to behavior or knowledge that seems to be built into an organism from birth. In the context of language theory, "instinctive" suggests that humans are born with an innate ability to grasp the structure of language — a mental blueprint for grammar that operates automatically, without formal instruction.
Meaning: Done naturally, without thought or learning; automatic or unlearned (Adjective)
Pronunciation: in-STINK-tiv
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Moderate
Etymology: From Latin "instinctus", meaning "impulse, prompting", from the verb "instinguere" (to incite)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Instinctive” is closely related to “innate.” If something is instinctive, it's wired into us — like blinking when something comes near the eyes or feeling protective toward loved ones.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: automatic, natural, reflexive, intuitive, inborn
Antonyms: learned, deliberate, conscious, calculated
Usage Examples:
- Her instinctive reaction was to shield the child from harm.
- Dogs have an instinctive urge to protect their territory.
- Even before he learned the rules, he showed an instinctive understanding of music.
- The baby’s instinctive grasp of grammar surprised the linguist.
Cultural Reference:
"In Malcolm Gladwell's 'Blink', he explores how we make quick, instinctive decisions that are often more accurate than those made after prolonged thought." - Blink by Malcolm Gladwell
Think About It:
How do you differentiate between what you’ve learned and what feels instinctive to you — and can instincts be trusted?
Quick Activity:
Make a two-column list: in one column, list things you do instinctively; in the other, things you had to consciously learn. Reflect on which behaviors are more reliable for you.
Memory Tip:
“Instinctive” = From your *instincts* — like blinking or jumping at a loud sound, things that just happen without thinking!
Real-World Application:
Understanding instinctive behavior helps in fields like psychology, parenting, and even marketing — where professionals rely on automatic human responses to design effective strategies.
WORD-6: Broca’s Area
Context:
"Neurosurgeons [have now found that this] 'black box' is situated in and around Broca’s area, on the left side of the forebrain." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
Broca’s area is a region in the frontal lobe of the brain, typically in the left hemisphere, that plays a crucial role in language processing, speech production, and comprehension. It is named after French physician Paul Broca, who discovered its significance in the 19th century. Damage to this area can lead to difficulties in speaking or forming coherent sentences — a condition known as Broca’s aphasia. In the given context, it is identified as a central “black box” involved in the brain's handling of language.
Meaning: A region in the frontal lobe of the brain involved in speech production and language processing (Noun - anatomical term)
Pronunciation: BROH-kuz AIR-ee-uh
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate to Advanced (technical term)
Etymology: Named after Pierre Paul Broca, a 19th-century French physician and anatomist who first linked this area to language functions
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Think of Broca’s area as the brain’s “language engine” — it’s where your thoughts start forming into actual words. Without it, speaking fluently becomes extremely difficult.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: speech production area, language motor cortex, frontal speech center
Antonyms: (No direct antonyms; complementary area: Wernicke’s area)
Usage Examples:
- Damage to Broca’s area can impair a person’s ability to speak, even though they still understand language.
- During brain surgery, neurosurgeons often avoid Broca’s area to preserve speech abilities.
- Functional MRI scans reveal heightened activity in Broca’s area when people engage in spoken dialogue.
- Language researchers study Broca’s area to better understand how the brain processes grammar and syntax.
Cultural Reference:
"Broca’s work with aphasic patients revolutionized neuroscience by linking specific brain regions to distinct cognitive functions." - Smithsonian Magazine
Think About It:
What might it reveal about human nature that language is so deeply embedded in a specific area of the brain?
Quick Activity:
Label a diagram of the human brain and try to locate Broca’s area. Then, note which language functions you think would be lost if this area were damaged.
Memory Tip:
Broca’s = “Broken speech” — damage here breaks fluent speech. Think “Broca → broken words.”
Real-World Application:
Understanding Broca’s area helps in diagnosing and treating speech disorders after strokes or brain injuries, and is key in neurolinguistics and cognitive therapy.
WORD-7: Superficial
Context:
"In other words, most of the diversity of the world’s cultures, so beloved to anthropologists, is superficial and minor compared to the similarities. Racial differences are literally only 'skin deep.'" - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "superficial" refers to something that exists or occurs at the surface level and lacks depth or substance. In this context, it means that while cultural or racial differences may appear significant on the outside, they are actually minor when compared to the fundamental similarities shared by all humans. It is often used to describe judgments or appearances that don't delve deeper into the core or essence of something.
Meaning: Existing or occurring on the surface; shallow or lacking in depth (Adjective)
Pronunciation: soo-per-FISH-uhl
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Moderate
Etymology: From Latin "superficialis," from "superficies" meaning "surface"
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Be cautious of forming superficial opinions — they are based only on appearances and often ignore deeper realities. Always look for what lies beneath the surface.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: shallow, surface-level, trivial, cursory, external
Antonyms: deep, profound, meaningful, substantial
Usage Examples:
- His knowledge of the subject was superficial and didn’t go beyond basic facts.
- Though their argument seemed serious, it was actually over something quite superficial.
- The wounds were painful but only superficial, affecting the top layer of skin.
- Too often, people judge others on superficial qualities like appearance or accent.
Cultural Reference:
"In many classic Hollywood films, characters are judged based on superficial traits, reinforcing the idea that looks can be deceiving." - Film Studies Journal
Think About It:
Why do humans often focus on superficial traits when forming first impressions, and what are the risks of doing so?
Quick Activity:
Write a paragraph describing someone you admire, avoiding all superficial characteristics like looks or clothing. Focus instead on their deeper qualities.
Memory Tip:
“Superficial” = “Super + facial” — only on the face or surface, not going deeper.
Real-World Application:
In social and cultural discussions, recognizing when differences are superficial can help reduce prejudice and encourage unity based on shared human experiences.
WORD-8: Bugaboos
Context:
"This proposition will undoubtedly raise the hackles of some behavioral psychologists and anthropologists, for it apparently contradicts the liberal idea that human behavior may be changed for the better by improvements in culture and environment, and it might seem to invite the twin bugaboos of biological determinism and racism." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "bugaboos" refers to things that cause fear, anxiety, or persistent worry, especially when such fears are exaggerated or irrational. In the context of the sentence, the term is used metaphorically to describe two highly controversial and emotionally charged concepts — biological determinism and racism — as figurative "monsters" or fears that people tend to avoid or strongly react to. The word often carries a tone of skepticism, suggesting that the fear may be overblown or misdirected.
Meaning: Imaginary fears or persistent sources of concern; objects of irrational dread (Noun, plural)
Pronunciation: BUH-guh-booz
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: Possibly from the word “bugbear” or “bogeyman,” with roots in Middle English "bugge" (a frightening thing)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Think of “bugaboos” as the grown-up version of childhood monsters under the bed — ideas or issues that provoke strong fear or resistance, often irrationally. They're psychological blocks more than actual threats.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: fear, obsession, phobia, specter, bugbear
Antonyms: comfort, reassurance, solution, security
Usage Examples:
- The idea of AI taking over jobs has become one of the major bugaboos of the modern workforce.
- For decades, inflation was the economic bugaboo that kept policymakers awake at night.
- Despite being unfounded, the bugaboo of vaccine-related conspiracies persists in some communities.
- Public speaking is a common bugaboo for many students and professionals alike.
Cultural Reference:
"The word 'bugaboo' has appeared in political discourse to label overblown fears—such as Cold War-era concerns about communist infiltration." - Political Lexicon Archive
Think About It:
What are some common bugaboos in today’s society, and how can we distinguish between genuine concerns and exaggerated fears?
Quick Activity:
List three “bugaboos” you or your peers have — whether personal, academic, or societal — and reflect on whether they are based on fact or fear.
Memory Tip:
“Bugaboo” sounds like “boo!” — like something that tries to scare you, but may not actually be dangerous.
Real-World Application:
Understanding bugaboos helps in critical thinking — especially in politics, media, and social movements — where fear-based narratives can cloud judgment or lead to irrational decisions.
WORD-9: Universal Grammar
Context:
"Racial differences are literally only 'skin deep.' The fundamental unity of humanity is the theme of Mr. Chomsky's universal grammar, and of this exciting book." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
Universal Grammar is a theory proposed by Noam Chomsky that suggests all human languages share a common underlying structure, which is hardwired into the brain. According to this theory, the capacity to learn language is innate, and the grammatical rules found across different languages stem from a universal set of principles. This idea supports the view that linguistic ability is a fundamental human trait, uniting people across cultures and languages at a deep cognitive level.
Meaning: A theoretical set of grammatical principles believed to be innate to all humans and common to all natural languages (Noun phrase)
Pronunciation: yoo-nih-VER-suhl GRAM-uhr
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate to Advanced
Etymology: Coined by Noam Chomsky in the 20th century; "universal" from Latin *universalis*, meaning “whole” or “entire,” and "grammar" from Greek *grammatike*, meaning “art of letters.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Think of Universal Grammar as the mental blueprint every human brain comes with — regardless of what language you grow up speaking, this deep structure helps us learn language quickly and naturally.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: innate grammar system, linguistic core, cognitive language framework
Antonyms: cultural grammar, language relativism, acquired grammar
Usage Examples:
- Chomsky’s theory of Universal Grammar suggests that children are born with an inherent knowledge of grammatical structures.
- Linguists use Universal Grammar to explain how toddlers can form complex sentences with minimal exposure.
- Despite surface differences, all human languages conform to the constraints of Universal Grammar.
- Debates over Universal Grammar have shaped modern theories of language acquisition and brain development.
Cultural Reference:
"Universal Grammar is central to the work of Noam Chomsky, one of the most influential thinkers in cognitive science and modern linguistics." - MIT Linguistics Department
Think About It:
What does the existence of a Universal Grammar suggest about the cognitive similarities among all humans, regardless of culture or language?
Quick Activity:
Choose two unrelated languages (e.g., Hindi and Japanese). Research one grammatical feature they share. How might this relate to the idea of Universal Grammar?
Memory Tip:
“Universal Grammar” = a grammar system that is *universal* to all humans — it’s the common code in our brains for learning any language.
Real-World Application:
Universal Grammar influences language education, AI language processing, and therapies for speech disorders by offering a model of how language works in the mind.
WORD-10: Pooh-poohed
Context:
"A half-century ago, this would have been pooh-poohed as a 'black box' theory, since one could not actually pinpoint this grammatical faculty in a specific part of the brain." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Pooh-poohed” is an informal and slightly humorous expression that means to dismiss or reject an idea or suggestion as unworthy of serious consideration. It often implies ridicule or a lack of respect toward something that later might prove valid. In this context, early theories about grammar being hardwired in the brain were dismissed or trivialized as implausible, before advances in neuroscience provided supporting evidence.
Meaning: To dismiss or belittle an idea or suggestion as foolish or unimportant (Verb, past tense)
Pronunciation: poo-POOD
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Moderate (colloquial)
Etymology: Imitative expression originating in the 18th–19th century, mimicking the sound of contempt or dismissal
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Pooh-poohing” something means not giving it the serious thought it might deserve — it’s like waving it away with a “that’s nonsense” attitude. Be careful not to pooh-pooh ideas just because they sound strange at first!
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: ridicule, dismiss, mock, scoff at, belittle
Antonyms: acknowledge, accept, praise, validate
Usage Examples:
- Scientists once pooh-poohed the idea that stress could influence physical health.
- He pooh-poohed her suggestion without even listening fully.
- Many critics initially pooh-poohed the author’s theory, only to praise it later.
- Don't pooh-pooh the idea until you've tried it yourself.
Cultural Reference:
"In early scientific circles, revolutionary ideas were often pooh-poohed — Galileo’s heliocentric model faced similar ridicule." - History of Science Digest
Think About It:
Have you ever pooh-poohed an idea that later turned out to be correct or valuable? What made you change your mind?
Quick Activity:
Write down three ideas or trends that were once pooh-poohed by society but are now widely accepted. What changed public opinion?
Memory Tip:
Think of someone literally saying “pooh!” to an idea — that’s pooh-poohing: expressing scorn or disbelief in a childish or dismissive tone.
Real-World Application:
Understanding how new ideas are pooh-poohed helps develop open-mindedness — a crucial skill in science, education, and leadership where innovation can initially seem radical or absurd.
