✨ 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:
- Surroundings
- Jostling
- Demise
- Inefficient
- Quantum
- Thermodynamics
- Tick
- Silicon nitride
- Regularity
- Entropy
WORD-1: Surroundings
Context:
"The researchers found that as they increased the clock’s accuracy, the heat produced in the system grew, increasing the entropy of its surroundings by jostling nearby particles... 'If a clock is more accurate, you are paying for it somehow,' says Ares. In this case, you pay for it by pouring more ordered energy into the environment." - Scientific Thermodynamics Report
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Surroundings" refers to everything in the environment around a particular system or object. In scientific contexts, particularly in physics and thermodynamics, it describes the external area that interacts with a system—absorbing or releasing energy, matter, or entropy. The concept is crucial in understanding how energy transfer and change occur in the real world. Outside of science, "surroundings" is often used to describe one's immediate environment or setting.
Meaning: The environment or area around something, especially in terms of its physical or energetic interaction (Noun, plural)
Pronunciation: suh-ROWN-dingz
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: From "surround" (Old French "soronder" meaning to overflow or enclose) + suffix "-ings" indicating a collective area or condition
Prashant Sir's Notes:
In science, especially thermodynamics, surroundings are not just 'the place around you'—they are everything the system interacts with. This word connects daily language with deep scientific theory, showing how the world reacts when energy moves.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: environment, setting, vicinity, ambiance, atmosphere
Antonyms: center, core, subject (when referring to the main object rather than the area around it)
Usage Examples:
- The scientist measured how the machine affected its thermal surroundings.
- She took a deep breath and observed her tranquil surroundings.
- In physics, energy doesn’t disappear—it moves into the surroundings.
- The animal blends into its surroundings to avoid predators.
Cultural Reference:
"The phrase 'a product of their surroundings' is often used in literature and film to explore how environment influences behavior and identity." - Cultural Language Lens
Think About It:
How do your surroundings—both physical and social—affect the way you think, behave, or feel on a daily basis?
Quick Activity:
Stand in a room and note down 5 things from your surroundings. Then reflect—do they affect your mood, focus, or creativity?
Memory Tip:
Think of “surroundings” as the things that “surround” you—everything that's around you and interacting with you!
Real-World Application:
In science, surroundings play a vital role in heat transfer, chemical reactions, and energy flow. In daily life, our surroundings—from natural landscapes to urban noise—shape health, behavior, and decision-making.
WORD-2: Jostling
Context:
"The researchers found that as they increased the clock’s accuracy, the heat produced in the system grew, increasing the entropy of its surroundings by jostling nearby particles." - Scientific Thermodynamics Report
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Jostling" refers to the act of bumping, pushing, or shoving something roughly or with force, often in a crowded or chaotic space. In scientific contexts, like in thermodynamics, "jostling" can describe the random, energetic motion of particles as they interact due to increased heat or energy. This word helps bridge everyday physical experiences with complex scientific phenomena by using familiar motion to describe invisible particle dynamics.
Meaning: Bumping or pushing against someone or something, often roughly or energetically (Verb - present participle)
Pronunciation: JAWS-ling
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Middle English "justilen", a frequentative of "josten" (to joust), meaning to come into contact or collide
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Imagine being in a crowd—people bumping into each other from all sides. That’s “jostling.” In physics, the same idea applies to particles: when heat increases, particles begin jostling more, leading to greater disorder or entropy.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: bumping, shoving, pushing, nudging, scrambling
Antonyms: stillness, calm, steady movement, rest
Usage Examples:
- The crowd was jostling to get a better view of the performer.
- Heat causes molecules to begin jostling each other more rapidly.
- The particles started jostling around as the temperature increased.
- She was tired of jostling through the busy train station every morning.
Cultural Reference:
"Jostling" often appears in literature to describe chaotic urban scenes or crowd dynamics—such as in *Oliver Twist*, where characters navigate bustling London streets full of jostling bodies and noise.
Think About It:
In what ways does physical or social jostling shape human behavior—whether in a marketplace, a protest, or even online spaces?
Quick Activity:
Write a short sentence comparing human jostling in a crowd to molecular jostling in a heated container. Use vivid language!
Memory Tip:
Think of “joust” — knights bumping into each other. “Jostling” is like that, but in a crowd or among particles!
Real-World Application:
Understanding molecular jostling helps scientists predict how heat affects matter—crucial in everything from engine design to climate science. Socially, "jostling" is used to describe physical competition in sports or crowds, and metaphorically in power struggles or market rivalry.
WORD-3: Demise
Context:
"The more entropy there is in the universe, the closer it may be to its eventual demise." - Physics & Cosmology Insights
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Demise" refers to the end or death of something—whether a person, organization, or even the universe itself. It's often used in formal or poetic contexts to describe a final decline or downfall. In scientific writing, it may describe the hypothetical "death" of the universe due to heat death, where maximum entropy leaves no usable energy to sustain processes. The word carries a solemn tone and is frequently used to mark the end of an era or existence.
Meaning: The end or death of something, especially when considered inevitable or significant (Noun)
Pronunciation: dih-MYZ
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Old French *demis*, past participle of *demettre* ("to dismiss, release"), based on Latin *demittere* ("to send down or let go")
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Demise" is a sophisticated alternative to "death" or "end." It’s used both literally (as in the death of a person) and metaphorically (as in the collapse of an empire or the heat death of the universe). It adds depth and seriousness to any discussion of finality.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: end, downfall, extinction, collapse, termination
Antonyms: birth, beginning, rise, emergence, resurgence
Usage Examples:
- The slow demise of the ancient civilization was marked by war and famine.
- Many scientists speculate about the possible demise of the universe through heat death.
- The sudden demise of the company shocked investors across the world.
- The play chronicles the tragic demise of a once-powerful ruler.
Cultural Reference:
"The demise of the Roman Empire is a central theme in countless books and films, symbolizing the fall of great power and human fragility." - Historical Perspectives Quarterly
Think About It:
Why do we often speak of the end of things—whether civilizations, careers, or the universe itself—as a 'demise'? What emotional or philosophical weight does this word carry?
Quick Activity:
Write two sentences using “demise”—one referring to a personal situation, and one referring to something scientific or historical.
Memory Tip:
Think: “de-” (down) + “-mise” (mission). When something’s mission is over—it’s the end, the demise.
Real-World Application:
"Demise" is used in law (as in the legal transfer of property after death), in journalism (to report significant deaths or endings), and in cosmology (to describe potential fates of the universe). It helps convey gravitas and finality in multiple disciplines.
WORD-4: Inefficient
Context:
"The relationship that the researchers found is a limit on the accuracy of a clock, so it doesn’t mean that a clock that creates the most possible entropy would be maximally accurate — hence a large, inefficient grandfather clock isn’t more precise than an atomic clock." - Physics & Timekeeping Analysis
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Inefficient" describes something that does not use time, energy, or resources in the best possible way. It typically refers to systems, machines, or methods that waste effort or materials while producing less effective results. In this scientific context, a grandfather clock may be labeled inefficient because it is bulky, consumes more energy or space, and lacks the precision of modern atomic clocks—highlighting the contrast between size and performance.
Meaning: Not achieving maximum productivity; wasting time, energy, or resources (Adjective)
Pronunciation: in-uh-FISH-uhnt
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *in-* (not) + *efficientem* (producing, effective)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Inefficient" doesn’t always mean 'bad'—it simply means something is not operating at its best. A method or machine may work but still waste energy or time. In science and business, identifying inefficiency is key to innovation and improvement.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: wasteful, unproductive, sluggish, clumsy, disorganized
Antonyms: efficient, effective, streamlined, optimized, productive
Usage Examples:
- The old heating system is inefficient and consumes too much electricity.
- Typing with one finger is an inefficient way to write an essay.
- Despite its elegance, the grandfather clock is inefficient compared to digital timekeepers.
- Scientists redesigned the engine to replace inefficient components with modern ones.
Cultural Reference:
"In many classic films, inefficient bureaucracies are portrayed as a source of frustration and comedy—highlighting the contrast between old systems and modern efficiency." - Film & Social Commentary
Think About It:
Can something be inefficient but still valued or beautiful—like a hand-built item or an analog clock? What does that say about our relationship with technology?
Quick Activity:
List 3 things you use every day that could be considered inefficient. How would you redesign or improve one of them?
Memory Tip:
Think: *in-* (not) + *efficient* = not efficient. Easy to remember: "inefficient" = "ineffective with effort."
Real-World Application:
Identifying inefficient systems is essential in business, manufacturing, environmental science, and healthcare. Improving efficiency can lead to cost savings, energy conservation, and higher productivity.
WORD-5: Quantum
Context:
"When the researchers compared their results with theoretical models developed for clocks that rely on quantum effects, they were surprised to find that the relationship between accuracy and entropy seemed to be the same for both." - Physics & Quantum Mechanics Insight
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Quantum" refers to the smallest possible discrete unit of any physical property, often related to energy or matter. In modern physics, particularly quantum mechanics, it describes the behaviors of particles at atomic and subatomic scales. Unlike classical physics, quantum phenomena are probabilistic and often counterintuitive—particles can exist in multiple states at once or affect each other instantly across distances. In this context, clocks using "quantum effects" operate based on such principles, achieving extraordinary precision through atomic transitions and entanglement.
Meaning: The smallest amount of a physical quantity, used especially in reference to energy and subatomic systems (Noun); relating to quantum theory (Adjective)
Pronunciation: KWON-tuhm
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Advanced
Etymology: From Latin *quantus* meaning “how much”; introduced in the early 20th century in the context of physics
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Quantum" may sound intimidating, but it simply refers to the tiniest building blocks of our universe. Once you break past classical logic, quantum thinking opens the door to incredible technologies—from quantum computers to atomic clocks to unbreakable encryption.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: subatomic, discrete unit, elementary particle (in specific contexts)
Antonyms: classical, continuous, macroscopic (in scientific contrast)
Usage Examples:
- Quantum theory revolutionized the way scientists understand particles and energy.
- Quantum computers promise to solve problems that classical computers cannot.
- The atomic clock functions based on quantum transitions in atoms.
- He made a quantum leap in understanding after reading about entanglement.
Cultural Reference:
"The term 'quantum leap'—popularized by science fiction and the 1980s TV show—originally referred to a sudden change at the atomic level, but now often describes any dramatic breakthrough." - Pop Science Culture Journal
Think About It:
How does the counterintuitive nature of quantum physics challenge our everyday understanding of reality?
Quick Activity:
Write a one-sentence explanation of what “quantum” means to someone who has never studied physics. Use an analogy if possible!
Memory Tip:
“Quantum” = “quantity” at the tiniest level. Think of it as the universe’s smallest packet of anything—energy, time, or matter!
Real-World Application:
Quantum science powers modern technologies such as GPS, MRI scanners, lasers, and atomic clocks. The future holds even more: quantum computers, secure communication systems, and sensors that can detect the undetectable.
WORD-6: Thermodynamics
Context:
"This finding could also help us understand more generally how the quantum world and the classical world are similar and different in terms of thermodynamics and the passage of time." - Quantum-Classical Physics Exploration
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Thermodynamics" is the branch of physics that studies how heat, energy, and work interact. It explains how energy moves between systems and how it affects matter—governing engines, weather, and even the universe's fate. In the quantum vs. classical debate, thermodynamics is central to exploring how time, energy, and entropy function differently at macroscopic and microscopic scales. This helps bridge two realms of science that often appear disconnected.
Meaning: The science of heat, energy, and their transformations and transfers (Noun)
Pronunciation: THUR-moh-dy-NAM-iks
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Advanced
Etymology: From Greek *therme* ("heat") and *dynamis* ("power"), literally "heat power"
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Thermodynamics connects the tiniest particles in quantum physics with the big, visible world of classical physics. It helps explain why time moves forward, why energy spreads, and how systems become disordered over time—a key to understanding reality itself.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: heat science, energy physics, caloric dynamics
Antonyms: — (Thermodynamics is a scientific field, so no direct antonym, though unrelated fields include optics or statics)
Usage Examples:
- Thermodynamics helps scientists compare how time flows in the quantum and classical worlds.
- Quantum thermodynamics explores how particles behave under energy exchanges at microscopic levels.
- Even time itself is studied through the lens of thermodynamics and entropy.
- The merging of quantum theory and thermodynamics could reveal new laws of nature.
Cultural Reference:
"Thermodynamics has fascinated scientists for centuries, from Carnot’s heat engines to modern-day theories about entropy and the arrow of time explored in books like *The Order of Time* by Carlo Rovelli." - Physics in Culture Series
Think About It:
If time is linked to thermodynamics through entropy, could reversing entropy let us reverse time—or does thermodynamics define the one-way flow of reality?
Quick Activity:
Create a simple Venn diagram comparing thermodynamic behavior in the classical vs. quantum world. What overlaps? What differs?
Memory Tip:
“Thermo” = heat, “Dynamics” = movement. So, think of thermodynamics as the science that explains how heat and energy move and shape the universe!
Real-World Application:
Thermodynamics informs the design of power plants, spacecraft, engines, and quantum technologies. As quantum devices advance, mastering thermodynamics will be critical for managing accuracy, efficiency, and energy loss at microscopic levels.
WORD-7: Tick
Context:
"The membrane moved up and down once and then returned to its original position, the researchers counted a tick, and the regularity of the spacing between the ticks represented the accuracy of the clock." – Timekeeping Research Study
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Tick" refers to the small, regular sound or motion made by a clock or timing mechanism, often used to mark the passage of time in equal intervals. In scientific or mechanical contexts, a "tick" can also refer to a measurable unit of a repetitive action—like the movement of a pendulum or a digital signal. In this example, each up-and-down motion of the membrane is a "tick," and the consistency of these ticks reflects how precise the timekeeping device is.
Meaning: A short, recurring movement or sound marking time intervals, often in a clock (Noun); or the action of producing such a sound/movement (Verb)
Pronunciation: tik
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: Imitative origin from the sound itself—first used in reference to clocks in the 17th century
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Tick" is a wonderfully simple word that captures a deep idea—our attempt to break time into precise, measurable pieces. Whether in wristwatches or atomic clocks, each tick represents a step forward in our understanding of time.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: beat, pulse, click, tock (paired sound), increment
Antonyms: pause, silence, irregularity, stop
Usage Examples:
- Each tick of the clock reminded her that the deadline was approaching.
- The scientist measured the consistency of each tick to assess the system's accuracy.
- Tick by tick, the mechanism recorded time with mechanical precision.
- Digital systems operate based on internal ticks from a timing crystal.
Cultural Reference:
"The phrase 'tick-tock' not only mimics the sound of a clock but has also entered pop culture as a symbol of time running out—seen in everything from suspense films to TikTok's branding." - Language in Pop Culture Journal
Think About It:
How does breaking time into “ticks” help us control or understand the world—and what might we miss by measuring everything so precisely?
Quick Activity:
Listen to a ticking clock for 30 seconds. Try to write a description or a poem that captures how it feels. What emotions or thoughts does each tick evoke?
Memory Tip:
“Tick” is the tiny sound a clock makes—and it sticks in your memory just like each passing second!
Real-World Application:
In electronics and programming, “ticks” are used to synchronize processes; in finance, a "tick" represents the smallest price movement; in clocks, it tracks the steady rhythm of time—making it vital to systems of measurement and precision.
WORD-8: Silicon Nitride
Context:
"Natalia Ares at the University of Oxford and her colleagues made this discovery using a tiny clock with an accuracy that can be controlled. The clock consists of a 50-nanometre-thick membrane of silicon nitride, vibrated by an electric current." – Quantum Clock Experiment
Explanatory Paragraph:
Silicon nitride is a durable, high-performance ceramic material composed of silicon and nitrogen atoms. Known for its hardness, thermal stability, and electrical insulation properties, it is used in advanced engineering applications such as microelectronics, medical implants, and nanotechnology. In this context, a thin membrane of silicon nitride is used in a precision timekeeping experiment due to its ability to vibrate consistently under electric currents, making it ideal for ultra-sensitive scientific devices.
Meaning: A hard, heat-resistant ceramic compound made from silicon and nitrogen (Noun)
Pronunciation: SIL-ih-kon NYE-tride
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From *silicon*, a chemical element (Si), and *nitride*, a compound containing nitrogen
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Silicon nitride is a material that lives at the intersection of chemistry and cutting-edge engineering. Stronger than glass and lighter than metal, it’s a go-to material in tech fields where precision and durability are crucial—especially where things vibrate, heat up, or must stay ultra-stable.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: ceramic compound, engineered ceramic, technical ceramic
Antonyms: organic material, soft polymer, conductive metal (in contrast to its insulating properties)
Usage Examples:
- The membrane made from silicon nitride was thin but incredibly resilient under pressure.
- Silicon nitride is commonly used in microchips due to its excellent insulating properties.
- The medical implant was made from biocompatible silicon nitride for long-term stability.
- Researchers used a silicon nitride substrate to build the core of the quantum sensor.
Cultural Reference:
"Silicon nitride has been used in space exploration and Formula 1 racing—where extreme strength, lightness, and heat resistance are non-negotiable." – High-Tech Materials Journal
Think About It:
What makes a material like silicon nitride so valuable in both medical devices and space technology? How does material science shape our future?
Quick Activity:
List three different fields that could benefit from using silicon nitride and describe one specific application for each.
Memory Tip:
“Silicon” = tech, “Nitride” = nitrogen compound. Think of it as a ceramic superhero—tough, stable, and scientifically smart!
Real-World Application:
Silicon nitride is used in everything from dental implants and car engines to quantum computing devices. Its ability to withstand high temperatures and remain mechanically stable makes it crucial in both everyday tools and frontier research.
WORD-9: Regularity
Context:
"Each time the membrane moved up and down once and then returned to its original position, the researchers counted a tick, and the regularity of the spacing between the ticks represented the accuracy of the clock. The researchers found that as they increased the clock’s accuracy..." – Precision Timekeeping Study
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Regularity" refers to the state or quality of occurring at even, predictable intervals or following a consistent pattern. It is crucial in fields like physics, engineering, and timekeeping, where precision depends on how evenly actions or events repeat. In this context, the regularity of ticks produced by a vibrating membrane defines the clock’s ability to keep accurate time. Greater regularity means less deviation from the expected pattern—key for reliable measurement.
Meaning: The condition of happening in a steady, even, or predictable pattern (Noun)
Pronunciation: reh-gyuh-LAIR-ih-tee
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *regularis* (rule-based), from *regula* meaning “rule” or “standard”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Regularity” is about predictability and rhythm. In science, it’s a sign of stability. In life, it gives structure. In clocks, it defines how well time is measured. The more regular something is, the more dependable it becomes—whether it’s heartbeats, schedules, or atomic vibrations.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: consistency, uniformity, steadiness, rhythm, predictability
Antonyms: irregularity, unpredictability, inconsistency, randomness
Usage Examples:
- The regularity of the pendulum’s swing is essential for the clock’s accuracy.
- Biological processes, such as sleep cycles, depend on the regularity of circadian rhythms.
- The train’s regularity was disrupted by unexpected weather conditions.
- They monitored the regularity of signals to detect system errors.
Cultural Reference:
"Regularity in rituals—like prayer, exercise, or daily habits—has long been valued in cultures worldwide for creating balance and discipline." – Anthropology & Habit Studies
Think About It:
How does regularity help create trust and stability in both scientific systems and everyday life? What happens when regularity breaks down?
Quick Activity:
Identify something in your daily life that depends on regularity. Write a short note on what would happen if it became irregular.
Memory Tip:
Think “regular” = same pattern, and “-ity” turns it into a state. So, “regularity” = the state of staying on a pattern or schedule.
Real-World Application:
Regularity is critical in systems like transportation, medicine (e.g., heartbeat monitors), programming (scheduled processes), and scientific experiments. In clocks, it's the backbone of accuracy, ensuring reliable measurement of time.
WORD-10: Entropy
Context:
"‘Maybe we should stop measuring time,’ says Ares. The scale of the additional entropy is so small, though, that there is no need to worry about its effects, she says." – Thermodynamics & Timekeeping Commentary
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Entropy" is a scientific concept that refers to the amount of disorder or randomness in a system. In thermodynamics, it describes how energy becomes more spread out over time, leading to increased disorder. The more entropy a system has, the less usable energy it contains. In everyday language, entropy is often used metaphorically to describe chaos or decline. In this context, it refers to the minute increase in disorder caused by the process of measuring time—a fascinating reminder that even precision has a thermodynamic cost.
Meaning: A measure of disorder, randomness, or the unavailability of energy in a system (Noun)
Pronunciation: EN-troh-pee
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Advanced
Etymology: From Greek *entropia* ("a turning toward"), coined in the mid-19th century by physicist Rudolf Clausius
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Entropy is one of the deepest concepts in science. It governs the flow of time, the direction of physical processes, and the fate of the universe. Though invisible, it's everywhere—from melting ice to running engines to the gradual unraveling of order in any system.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: disorder, randomness, chaos, disorganization
Antonyms: order, structure, organization, arrangement
Usage Examples:
- Entropy always increases in an isolated system, leading to the eventual loss of usable energy.
- The entropy of the system rose as heat was added and molecules moved more chaotically.
- She used "entropy" metaphorically to describe the breakdown of the once-orderly classroom.
- In quantum clocks, even the act of measurement introduces a tiny bit of entropy.
Cultural Reference:
"Entropy has crossed from physics into philosophy and art, often symbolizing the inevitable decay of systems—from cities to civilizations to the cosmos." – Science in Culture Quarterly
Think About It:
What does it mean that time, order, and even life itself are always moving toward greater entropy? How do we create meaning or stability in such a universe?
Quick Activity:
List three examples of increasing entropy in your daily life (e.g., a messy room, cooling tea, battery draining). Then write how you might reverse or reduce it—even temporarily.
Memory Tip:
Think of “entropy” as “entering chaos.” As energy spreads out, so does disorder—entropy is the measure of that spread!
Real-World Application:
Entropy affects everything from energy efficiency and climate change to computer performance and cosmic evolution. Understanding entropy helps engineers design better systems and physicists explain the direction of time itself.
