✨ 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:
- Stimulus
- Treason
- Appeasement
- Gratification
- Cultivating
- Monotheistic
- Perhaps
- Pursuits
- Accompanied
- Flushing
WORD-1: Stimulus
Context:
"The first movement is the immediate feeling and other reactions (e.g., physiological response) that occur when a stimulus or event occurs. For instance, consider what could have happened if an army general accused Marcus Aurelius of treason in front of other officers." – Philosophy & Psychology Reflection
Explanatory Paragraph:
A "stimulus" is any event or factor that provokes a response, either physically or emotionally. In psychology, it refers to an external trigger—like a sound, sight, or incident—that causes a person to feel or act. In biology, a stimulus causes a sensory or reflexive reaction in the body. In this context, it is used to describe a triggering moment or event—such as a public accusation—that sparks an emotional or physiological response.
Meaning: Something that provokes a reaction or response in a person, organism, or system (Noun)
Pronunciation: STIM-yuh-luhs
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *stimulus*, meaning “goad” or “spur,” originally referring to a pointed stick used to drive animals
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Stimulus" is a powerful word in psychology, economics, and biology. It’s the spark that sets things in motion. Whether it's a loud noise, a bold statement, or a government policy, a stimulus causes a chain reaction—and what matters most is how we respond to it.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: trigger, prompt, provocation, signal, impetus
Antonyms: deterrent, suppression, inaction, hindrance
Usage Examples:
- The sudden stimulus of the alarm clock jolted her out of sleep.
- An insult like that, especially in public, would be a strong emotional stimulus.
- Plants grow toward a light source, responding to the stimulus of sunlight.
- The economy was boosted by a major fiscal stimulus from the government.
Cultural Reference:
"In psychology, Pavlov’s dogs famously responded to a stimulus—a bell paired with food—by salivating, proving how external triggers can condition internal reactions." – Classic Experiments in Psychology
Think About It:
How can we train ourselves to pause and reflect before reacting to an emotional stimulus—especially in high-stakes or tense situations?
Quick Activity:
Identify one recent emotional stimulus you experienced. What was your reaction, and how might you respond differently next time?
Memory Tip:
“Stimulus” = something that *stimulates* or activates you—like a spark to a flame, it starts a reaction.
Real-World Application:
Stimuli are everywhere—in marketing (ads), medicine (nerve responses), education (questions), and politics (protests). Understanding what triggers a response can help us design better systems, from therapy techniques to economic policies.
WORD-2: Treason
Context:
"For instance, consider what could have happened if an army general accused Marcus Aurelius of treason in front of other officers." – Philosophy & Leadership Scenario
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Treason" is the act of betraying one's country or sovereign, especially by attempting to overthrow the government or aid its enemies. It is considered one of the gravest crimes in political and legal systems throughout history. In a broader or metaphorical sense, treason can also refer to betrayal of trust, loyalty, or allegiance—whether personal, professional, or moral. In the historical context given, such an accusation against a Roman emperor like Marcus Aurelius would not only be dangerous but could carry dramatic consequences for all involved.
Meaning: The crime of betraying one’s country, typically by attempting to overthrow the government (Noun)
Pronunciation: TREE-zuhn
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Old French *traison*, from Latin *traditio* (a handing over, surrender), from *tradere* ("to hand over or betray")
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Treason isn’t just about politics or war. At its core, it’s about betrayal—of trust, identity, or loyalty. That’s why the term feels heavy, even outside courtrooms. Historically, it’s been tied to revolutions, exiles, and even martyrdom.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: betrayal, treachery, sedition, mutiny, subversion
Antonyms: loyalty, allegiance, fidelity, patriotism
Usage Examples:
- He was executed for treason after plotting against the king.
- In ancient Rome, even a whisper of treason could result in exile or death.
- Some viewed the whistleblower as a hero, while others accused him of treason.
- Accusing someone of treason requires strong evidence and carries serious consequences.
Cultural Reference:
"The phrase 'et tu, Brute?' from Shakespeare’s *Julius Caesar* captures the emotional depth of treason—a betrayal not just of a ruler, but by a friend." – Literary History Review
Think About It:
Is treason always political—or can someone be guilty of 'moral treason' in relationships or communities?
Quick Activity:
Write a short scene in which someone is wrongly accused of treason. What are the emotions, the risks, and the consequences?
Memory Tip:
Think: “Treason = Betray the nation.” Both words share the “-son” sound, helping you link betrayal to the idea of national disloyalty.
Real-World Application:
Treason laws exist in nearly every country to protect national security. However, history shows they can be used both to uphold justice and to suppress dissent. Understanding treason helps one grasp the balance between loyalty and free speech.
WORD-3: Appeasement
Context:
"Second movement behaviors occur after thinking and are under one’s control. Examples of second movements for Marcus might have included a plot to seek revenge, actions signifying deference and appeasement, or perhaps proceeding as he would have proceeded whether or not this event occurred." – Stoic Response Framework
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Appeasement" refers to the act of calming or pacifying someone—often by yielding to their demands—in order to maintain peace or avoid conflict. It can be a diplomatic strategy or a personal behavior, depending on context. In personal or historical settings, appeasement may be seen as a way to reduce tension, though it can also be criticized if it involves giving in to wrong or unjust demands. In this context, Marcus Aurelius’s appeasement would mean responding to the accusation with calming gestures or submissive behavior to restore harmony without confrontation.
Meaning: The act of calming someone down or making concessions to avoid conflict (Noun)
Pronunciation: uh-PEEZ-muhnt
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Old French *apaisier* (“to pacify”) and Latin *pax* (“peace”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Appeasement can be wise or weak—depending on timing, motive, and outcome. In diplomacy, it's about avoiding war. In personal life, it might mean choosing peace over pride. But be cautious: appeasement that encourages injustice can backfire.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: pacification, conciliation, compromise, submission, soothing
Antonyms: provocation, confrontation, resistance, defiance
Usage Examples:
- His tone shifted into one of appeasement to calm the angry crowd.
- The general’s appeasement of the emperor was a strategic move, not weakness.
- Historical appeasement policies before World War II have been widely debated.
- Her gestures of appeasement were meant to restore peace in the conversation.
Cultural Reference:
"Appeasement is most famously associated with British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain’s policy toward Hitler in the 1930s—a controversial attempt to avoid war by conceding to aggressive demands." – History & Politics Review
Think About It:
When does appeasement become wisdom, and when does it become surrender? How can we tell the difference in modern life?
Quick Activity:
Write a dialogue where one character uses appeasement to de-escalate a conflict. Reflect afterward: did it resolve the issue or just delay it?
Memory Tip:
“Appeasement” = “A peace meant.” Think of it as actions meant to bring peace—but not always strength.
Real-World Application:
Appeasement strategies are used in politics, business negotiations, parenting, and personal relationships. When used thoughtfully, they prevent unnecessary conflict; when misused, they can enable harmful behavior or delay hard truths.
WORD-4: Gratification
Context:
"Money, power, and excessive sexual gratification are not important. Character, rationality, and kindness are important." – Stoic Philosophy Reflection
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Gratification" refers to the feeling of pleasure or satisfaction that comes from fulfilling a desire, need, or goal. It can be physical (like food or touch), emotional (like praise or affection), or psychological (like success or recognition). In this context, "excessive sexual gratification" is used to highlight fleeting pleasures that are contrasted with deeper values like character and rationality—echoing Stoic ideals that warn against overindulgence in temporary pleasures.
Meaning: Pleasure or satisfaction gained from fulfilling a desire or need (Noun)
Pronunciation: gra-tuh-fuh-KAY-shun
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *gratificari* (“to show favor”), from *gratus* (“pleasing, thankful”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Gratification isn’t bad in itself—it’s natural to enjoy comfort, success, or connection. But when pleasure becomes the goal of life, we risk losing control. Stoicism reminds us that discipline and meaning outweigh momentary satisfaction.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: pleasure, satisfaction, indulgence, fulfillment, enjoyment
Antonyms: frustration, denial, restraint, disappointment
Usage Examples:
- Instant gratification often feels good, but it rarely leads to long-term happiness.
- He found more gratification in helping others than in receiving praise.
- The pursuit of constant gratification can distract us from meaningful goals.
- Learning to delay gratification is a key part of developing self-control.
Cultural Reference:
"Psychologist Walter Mischel’s famous 'marshmallow test' explored delayed gratification in children—those who waited often performed better later in life." – Psychology Classics Digest
Think About It:
Why is delayed gratification considered a sign of emotional maturity? How can resisting short-term pleasure lead to greater long-term rewards?
Quick Activity:
List two things you find instantly gratifying and two that require patience but bring deeper satisfaction. Compare how each makes you feel over time.
Memory Tip:
“Gratification” comes from “gratify,” which sounds like “gratitude.” Gratification = something that makes you feel pleased or thankful—at least for a moment!
Real-World Application:
Gratification plays a major role in marketing, addiction science, psychology, and personal development. Understanding how we pursue and respond to gratification helps us make wiser choices, build discipline, and live more purposefully.
WORD-5: Cultivating
Context:
"The Stoic idea bears some similarity to Buddhism. Buddha, living in India in the 6th century BC, argued for cultivating a certain attitude that decreases the probability of (in Stoic terms) destructive second movements." – Philosophy of Emotion & Behavior
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Cultivating" means to actively develop or nurture something over time through care, effort, and intention. Originally used in the context of farming (cultivating crops), the word now applies to personal traits, habits, relationships, or states of mind. In this context, cultivating refers to deliberately nurturing a calm, thoughtful attitude to prevent reactive or harmful emotional behaviors—an idea found in both Stoicism and Buddhism.
Meaning: To foster the growth or development of something, especially over time with care and effort (Verb)
Pronunciation: KUHL-tuh-vay-ting
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *cultivare* (“to till, to tend”), from *cultus* (“care, culture”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
When we talk about cultivating something like wisdom or patience, we’re talking about a conscious practice—just like watering a plant. The word reminds us that good character traits don’t happen by accident; they’re grown with discipline and time.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: nurturing, developing, fostering, growing, refining
Antonyms: neglecting, ignoring, stifling, abandoning
Usage Examples:
- He spent years cultivating the habit of mindful breathing.
- Cultivating gratitude helps people develop resilience and emotional strength.
- Teachers play a key role in cultivating curiosity in their students.
- Buddhism emphasizes cultivating detachment and compassion to reduce suffering.
Cultural Reference:
"In both Stoic and Buddhist traditions, cultivating inner peace and clarity is seen as the highest goal—achieved not through denial, but through disciplined awareness and practice." – Comparative Philosophy Quarterly
Think About It:
What attitudes or habits are you currently cultivating—intentionally or unintentionally? How do they shape your responses to stress or conflict?
Quick Activity:
List three positive traits you would like to cultivate. For each, write one daily practice that could help nurture it.
Memory Tip:
Think of cultivating like gardening—whatever you water and care for will grow. Same goes for patience, focus, or confidence!
Real-World Application:
Cultivating emotional intelligence, professional skills, or healthy habits is essential in education, leadership, therapy, and self-development. It's a mindset that shifts life from reactive to proactive growth.
WORD-6: Monotheistic
Context:
"Which the Stoics believed we could do because we have a touch of the divine, laid the foundation for the three monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam... As with Stoicism, tenets of these religions include controlling our emotions lest we engage in sinful behavior." – Philosophy & Religious History
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Monotheistic" refers to the belief in a single, all-powerful God. It is a defining feature of religions like Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, which teach that one supreme divine being created and governs the universe. This contrasts with polytheistic religions, which believe in multiple gods. In the context of Stoicism and religious ethics, monotheistic traditions similarly emphasize inner discipline, moral behavior, and the spiritual nature of humanity.
Meaning: Believing in or relating to the belief in only one God (Adjective)
Pronunciation: mon-uh-thee-IS-tik
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Greek *monos* (“single”) + *theos* (“god”) + suffix *-istic*
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Understanding "monotheistic" helps you recognize the spiritual and ethical roots shared by major world religions. These systems often promote the idea that a single divine presence offers moral guidance and expects self-control, compassion, and righteousness from followers.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: one-God belief, theistic (context-dependent), Abrahamic (in historical-religious context)
Antonyms: polytheistic, atheistic, pantheistic
Usage Examples:
- Judaism, Christianity, and Islam are the world’s major monotheistic religions.
- The Stoics' spiritual ideas influenced later monotheistic thought in the West.
- Monotheistic faiths often emphasize a personal relationship with a single deity.
- Unlike ancient Greek religion, which was polytheistic, Stoic ethics leaned toward monotheistic ideals.
Cultural Reference:
"The shift from polytheism to monotheism marked a key turning point in religious history, shaping the structure of Western civilization and legal systems." – Comparative Religion Studies
Think About It:
How does the belief in one all-powerful God shape a person's sense of responsibility, morality, and purpose in life?
Quick Activity:
Compare a monotheistic religion (e.g., Islam) with a polytheistic one (e.g., Hinduism). List two differences in belief structure and moral outlook.
Memory Tip:
“Mono” = one, “theistic” = about God → monotheistic = belief in ONE God. Simple as that!
Real-World Application:
Monotheistic principles influence modern laws, ethics, holidays, and education in many parts of the world. They provide a framework for understanding justice, compassion, and human dignity across cultures and political systems.
WORD-7: Perhaps
Context:
"The first movement for Marcus may have been (internal) surprise and anger in response to this insult, accompanied perhaps by some involuntary physiological and expressive responses such as face flushing and a movement of the eyebrows." – Stoic Emotion Analysis
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Perhaps" is a word used to express uncertainty, possibility, or speculation. It suggests that something might be true or might happen, but without full confidence or proof. In both everyday and philosophical writing, "perhaps" allows room for multiple interpretations or open-ended thinking. In this context, it signals that Marcus *might* have experienced subtle bodily responses—though the author leaves space for other possibilities.
Meaning: Possibly; used to express uncertainty or suggest something that might happen (Adverb)
Pronunciation: per-HAPS
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Middle English *per* (“by”) + *hap* (“chance, fortune”)—literally meaning “by chance”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
"Perhaps" is a subtle but powerful word. It introduces humility into speech and writing. Rather than claiming certainty, it suggests openness and caution—qualities central to philosophical thinking and respectful dialogue.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: maybe, possibly, conceivably, peradventure (archaic)
Antonyms: definitely, certainly, surely, undoubtedly
Usage Examples:
- Perhaps we should wait until everyone arrives before starting the meeting.
- The change in tone perhaps reflected a shift in mood.
- Perhaps Marcus flushed with anger, though he quickly regained composure.
- She’ll join us later, perhaps after finishing her work.
Cultural Reference:
"Philosophers and poets often use 'perhaps' to invite reflection and possibility—leaving space for wonder, doubt, or alternate meanings, as seen in Rilke’s poems or Socratic dialogues." – Language and Thought Journal
Think About It:
How does using words like “perhaps” in conversation change the tone or feeling of your message? When is it helpful to embrace uncertainty?
Quick Activity:
Write two sentences—one using “perhaps” and one without it. Compare how certain or flexible each statement sounds.
Memory Tip:
“Per” (by) + “haps” (chance) = “by chance.” Think of “perhaps” as leaving a door open to possibility!
Real-World Application:
“Perhaps” is commonly used in academic writing, polite disagreement, and philosophical discussion. It helps signal a tentative idea, allowing for flexibility in debate, negotiation, or open-minded thinking.
WORD-8: Accompanied
Context:
"The first movement for Marcus may have been (internal) surprise and anger in response to this insult, accompanied perhaps by some involuntary physiological and expressive responses such as face flushing and a movement of the eyebrows." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word "accompanied" refers to something that occurs together with or in addition to something else. In the given context, it suggests that Marcus's internal reaction to the insult didn't happen in isolation but was joined by visible physical signs such as his face flushing or his eyebrows moving. The term helps us understand that emotions often trigger physical responses that manifest externally.
Meaning: Occurred with or in addition to something; went along with (Verb - past participle of "accompany")
Pronunciation: uh-kuhm-puh-nead
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Old French *acompagner*, based on Latin *companio* (com - "with" + panis - "bread"), originally meaning "one who eats bread with another."
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Accompanied” is a helpful word in writing to show that two things occur together — whether emotions, actions, or events. Use it to establish connection or simultaneity.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: escorted, followed, attended, joined, went along with
Antonyms: left, deserted, separated, abandoned
Usage Examples:
- His speech was accompanied by loud applause from the audience.
- The heavy rain was accompanied by strong winds.
- She was accompanied by her mother to the ceremony.
- Nausea is often accompanied by dizziness during motion sickness.
Cultural Reference:
"Loneliness is never accompanied by silence; it speaks loudest through the things we miss." - A reflective line often found in literature and emotional writing.
Think About It:
Can every emotional reaction be accompanied by a visible physical change? What does this reveal about human communication?
Quick Activity:
Write a short paragraph describing a surprise birthday party using the word “accompanied” to link emotional and physical reactions.
Memory Tip:
Think of "accompanied" as “a company” — something that doesn't come alone. If someone is in your company, they accompany you!
Real-World Application:
“Accompanied” is commonly used in reports, essays, and conversations to explain when two events or states happen together — e.g., “Fever is often accompanied by fatigue,” which is a phrase regularly used in medical or academic writing.
WORD-9: Flushing
Context:
"The first movement for Marcus may have been (internal) surprise and anger in response to this insult, accompanied perhaps by some involuntary physiological and expressive responses such as face flushing and a movement of the eyebrows." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Flushing" refers to the reddening of the face or skin, usually due to increased blood flow. It's often a visible reaction triggered by strong emotions like embarrassment, anger, or excitement. In the given context, Marcus's face flushing is a spontaneous, uncontrollable reaction to an emotional insult — a clear outward sign of his internal turmoil. Such physiological cues often reveal emotions even when words don’t.
Meaning: A sudden reddening of the skin, especially of the face, often due to emotion, heat, or illness (Noun/Verb)
Pronunciation: fluh-shing
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Middle English *fluschen*, likely imitative of a rushing sound; related to Old French *flux*, meaning "a flow".
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Flushing” is a vivid word for describing involuntary emotional responses — particularly useful in storytelling, psychology, or behavioral science contexts.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: reddening, blushing, coloring, glowing
Antonyms: paling, blanching, fading
Usage Examples:
- She felt herself flushing with embarrassment as everyone stared at her.
- The heat caused his cheeks to begin flushing.
- Flushing is a common symptom of social anxiety in public settings.
- His face was flushing with anger after the heated argument.
Cultural Reference:
"Flushing is the telltale sign of repressed emotion in classic literature — think of Elizabeth Bennet’s modesty or Jane Eyre’s concealed fury." - Literary Analysis Journals
Think About It:
Can you control physiological reactions like flushing, or do they reveal more about you than you intend?
Quick Activity:
List three emotional scenarios where someone might start flushing. Then describe what that flushing communicates in each case.
Memory Tip:
Think “flush = rush” — a rush of blood to your face that makes it red. Easy to recall when you link emotion and blood flow.
Real-World Application:
"Flushing" is relevant in fields like psychology, healthcare, and even acting, where understanding non-verbal emotional cues is crucial. Doctors observe facial flushing as a symptom, while actors use it to make performances believable.
WORD-10: Pursuits
Context:
"Held a similar view, believing that people should enjoy simple pleasures, such as good conversation, friendship, food, and wine, but not be indulgent in these pursuits and not follow passion for those things that hold no real value like power and money." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Pursuits" refers to the activities or goals that people dedicate time and effort to. In the given context, the word is used to describe enjoyable but potentially excessive indulgences like food and wine. The author encourages moderation in these pursuits, implying that while such pleasures are valid, they should not overshadow more meaningful values. The word highlights how our actions and interests reflect what we value most.
Meaning: Activities or interests one spends time doing or striving for (Noun - plural)
Pronunciation: per-soots
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Old French *poursuite*, from *poursuir* ("to pursue"), ultimately from Latin *prosequi*, meaning "to follow or go after".
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Pursuits” is a rich word to describe what we choose to spend time on. It’s useful in discussions about lifestyle, career, education, and values. Use it to sound thoughtful and analytical.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: activities, endeavors, undertakings, interests, occupations
Antonyms: idleness, inactivity, neglect, avoidance
Usage Examples:
- He devoted his life to intellectual and artistic pursuits.
- Outdoor pursuits like hiking and camping offer both relaxation and adventure.
- We should balance professional pursuits with personal well-being.
- Her creative pursuits included painting, writing, and music.
Cultural Reference:
"The pursuit of happiness" is a key phrase from the U.S. Declaration of Independence, emphasizing the right to seek fulfillment through meaningful pursuits.
Think About It:
What do your daily pursuits say about your values and long-term goals?
Quick Activity:
List your top three personal or professional pursuits. Reflect on whether they align with your core values or goals.
Memory Tip:
“Pursuits” are what you *pursue* — both words share the same root. If you chase something, it’s your pursuit.
Real-World Application:
The word “pursuits” is often used in academic, motivational, and philosophical writing to describe how people spend their time or strive toward goals. It helps in articulating life direction and ambition.
