✨ 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:
- Fangzhipin
- connotations
- Essentially
- Exception
- Scaffolding
- Intervention
- legitimised
- Reincarnation
- Antiquity
- Fewer Scruples
WORD-1: Fuzhipin
Context:
"The Chinese have two different concepts of a copy. Fangzhipin . . . are imitations where the difference from the original is obvious. These are small models or copies that can be purchased in a museum shop, for example. The second concept for a copy is fuzhipin." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Fuzhipin" is a Chinese term that refers to a type of copy or reproduction that is intended to be as close to the original as possible — often indistinguishable. Unlike "fangzhipin", which openly show their differences, "fuzhipin" aim to faithfully replicate the original item in every possible detail. This concept reflects a cultural attitude toward replication where the boundary between original and copy becomes blurred, especially in art, architecture, or historical restoration.
Meaning: A meticulous reproduction or replica meant to closely match the original (Noun, Chinese origin)
Pronunciation: foo-zhi-pin
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Advanced
Etymology: From Mandarin Chinese 复制品 (fùzhìpǐn), where “复制” means “to reproduce/replicate” and “品” refers to a product or item.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Fuzhipin” represents a fascinating cultural view where imitation is not seen as inferior but as a mark of technical excellence. It can be used in cultural discussions or philosophical debates about originality.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: replica, reproduction, faithful copy, duplicate
Antonyms: original, prototype, unique creation
Usage Examples:
- The museum displayed a fuzhipin of an ancient scroll to protect the fragile original.
- Chinese artisans often create fuzhipin of historic statues for public display.
- Unlike commercial replicas, a fuzhipin is crafted with extreme attention to detail.
- Fuzhipin challenge the Western notion that copies lack value or authenticity.
Cultural Reference:
"In Chinese art, the concept of fuzhipin emphasizes skillful replication over originality — a perspective that values mastery and tradition." - Art History Perspectives, East Asia Studies
Think About It:
Does a perfect replica lose meaning just because it’s not the original? What makes something truly ‘authentic’?
Quick Activity:
Compare fuzhipin and fangzhipin in a T-chart. List three characteristics that differentiate the two types of copies.
Memory Tip:
Think “fu = full” and “zhipin = product” — a fuzhipin is a *full* or *faithful* product copy, aiming to match the original completely.
Real-World Application:
"Fuzhipin" is relevant in discussions around intellectual property, museum displays, cultural preservation, and debates on authenticity in art. It shows how some cultures honor precision and replication as a form of reverence for the original.
WORD-2: Connotations
Context:
"It has absolutely no negative connotations. The discrepancy with regard to the understanding of what a copy is has often led to misunderstandings and arguments between China and Western museums." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Connotations" are the ideas, emotions, or associations that a word or phrase carries beyond its literal definition. In the context above, the word refers to how the concept of a "copy" may have different implied meanings in different cultures — with Western perspectives often attaching negative connotations, such as “fake” or “inferior,” whereas the Chinese view may not. Understanding connotations is crucial for grasping how language can shape perception and cause cultural misunderstandings.
Meaning: The implied or associated meanings of a word beyond its literal definition (Noun - plural)
Pronunciation: kon-uh-tay-shuns
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *connotare*, meaning “to mark in addition.” The prefix *con-* means "with" and *notare* means "to mark."
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Connotations” is a very useful word in critical reading and writing. It helps you recognize that words aren’t neutral — they carry emotional and cultural weight. Great for essay writing and verbal analysis.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: implications, associations, undertones, nuances, suggestions
Antonyms: denotations, literal meanings, explicit meanings
Usage Examples:
- The word “home” has warm connotations of comfort and family.
- She avoided using terms with negative connotations in her speech.
- Different cultures attach different connotations to the idea of success.
- “Cheap” and “affordable” may describe the same thing but have different connotations.
Cultural Reference:
In literature, poets often rely on connotations to create emotional depth — for example, the word “night” can connote fear, mystery, or peace depending on the context.
Think About It:
Can a single word have both positive and negative connotations depending on the situation or culture?
Quick Activity:
Choose any three words (e.g., "freedom," "discipline," "luxury") and list their possible connotations. Explain how they change in different contexts.
Memory Tip:
Think of “connotation” as a *conversation* a word is having beyond the dictionary — it’s not just what it means, but what it *says between the lines*.
Real-World Application:
Understanding connotations is crucial in communication, marketing, politics, and translation. Word choice can influence perception, tone, and even international relations — as seen in the clash of cultural interpretations of the word "copy."
WORD-3: Essentially
Context:
"The Chinese often send copies abroad instead of originals, in the firm belief that they are not essentially different from the originals." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Essentially" is an adverb used to express the fundamental nature or core truth of something, even if small differences exist. In the given sentence, it conveys that the Chinese view the copies and the originals as the same in essence or meaning — that any minor material differences do not alter their value or identity. This perspective reflects a cultural belief that the spirit or purpose of an object holds more weight than its physical originality.
Meaning: In essence or substance; fundamentally (Adverb)
Pronunciation: eh-sen-shuh-lee
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Late Latin *essentialis* (relating to essence), from *essentia*, meaning "being" or "essence".
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Essentially” helps you cut through the noise and get to the core idea. It’s a handy transition word for essays, debates, or explanations where simplification or emphasis is needed.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: fundamentally, basically, inherently, intrinsically
Antonyms: superficially, marginally, incidentally
Usage Examples:
- The two proposals are essentially the same despite minor differences.
- He is essentially a kind person, though he may come off as strict.
- The debate was essentially about cultural values.
- Although flawed, the movie is essentially a work of passion and creativity.
Cultural Reference:
Philosophers like Aristotle and Kant often debated what is “essential” to an object or concept — its core identity — versus what is accidental or external to it.
Think About It:
If something looks and functions exactly like the original, is it *essentially* the same? What defines the true identity of an object?
Quick Activity:
Rewrite the sentence “She’s a good leader” by adding “essentially” to highlight the underlying truth. Then try two more variations using different contexts.
Memory Tip:
Think: *Essence = core truth*. So “essentially” means you’re talking about what’s true at the heart of something.
Real-World Application:
“Essentially” is a valuable word in academic writing, business communication, and everyday speech when summarizing key points, clarifying arguments, or simplifying complex ideas.
WORD-4: Eroded Stones
Context:
"As a result, the cathedral is continually being examined for damage, and eroded stones are replaced." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Eroded stones" refers to pieces of stone that have been worn away over time due to natural elements like wind, rain, or pollution. Erosion is a gradual process where material is broken down and carried off by environmental forces. In this context, the cathedral's structure includes stones that deteriorate due to exposure to weather, leading to the necessity of regular restoration work. The phrase highlights how even sturdy materials like stone are vulnerable to nature’s slow but persistent forces.
Meaning: Stones that have been gradually worn away or damaged by natural forces (Noun phrase)
Pronunciation: ih-roh-did stoanz
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *erodere* (“to gnaw away”), combining *e-* (“away”) and *rodere* (“to gnaw”). "Stone" comes from Old English *stān*, meaning "rock or stone".
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This phrase helps describe long-term damage due to environmental wear. It can be used in discussions around architecture, geography, or environmental science. Think of it as nature’s slow sculpting tool.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: weathered stones, worn-out rocks, decayed stone, crumbling stone
Antonyms: intact stones, preserved stone, new masonry, solid rock
Usage Examples:
- The archaeologists replaced the eroded stones to maintain the temple’s integrity.
- Constant rainfall had left the garden wall lined with eroded stones.
- Builders sourced similar sandstone to replace the eroded stones on the cathedral façade.
- Natural erosion left behind a trail of eroded stones along the cliffside.
Cultural Reference:
Famous landmarks like the Sphinx in Egypt and Angkor Wat in Cambodia show signs of erosion over centuries, where eroded stones mark the passage of time and nature’s quiet force.
Think About It:
What does the replacement of eroded stones tell us about the balance between preserving history and accepting natural decay?
Quick Activity:
Observe an old building, wall, or monument near you. Identify signs of erosion. Write a short paragraph describing its appearance and speculate what caused it.
Memory Tip:
Imagine erosion as "nature slowly nibbling" at stone — eroded stones are the leftovers after years of this nibbling.
Real-World Application:
Understanding eroded stones is essential in fields like geology, architecture, and conservation. It helps professionals assess the lifespan of structures and plan for preservation or repair.
WORD-5: Scaffolding
Context:
"The cathedral of Freiburg Minster in southwest Germany is covered in scaffolding almost all year round. The sandstone from which it is built is a very soft, porous material that does not withstand natural erosion by rain and wind." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Scaffolding" refers to a temporary structure made of metal poles and wooden planks used to support construction workers and materials while a building or structure is being repaired, built, or cleaned. In this context, the cathedral in Freiburg Minster requires ongoing maintenance due to the fragility of its sandstone, so it remains surrounded by scaffolding almost year-round. Beyond the physical meaning, “scaffolding” can also be used metaphorically in education or psychology to describe support structures that help learners progress step-by-step.
Meaning: A temporary framework used to support workers and materials during the construction or repair of buildings (Noun)
Pronunciation: ska-fohl-ding
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Middle English *scaffald*, from Old French *eschaffaut*, ultimately from Frankish roots meaning “structure of support.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Scaffolding” is a great example of a word with both literal and metaphorical use. While it's common in architecture and construction, it’s equally powerful in educational and developmental psychology.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: framework, platform, support structure, staging
Antonyms: dismantling, deconstruction (context-dependent)
Usage Examples:
- The workers climbed the scaffolding to repair the damaged spire of the church.
- During the restoration, scaffolding blocked the entire front view of the building.
- In education, scaffolding refers to giving students support at each learning stage.
- Scaffolding was erected around the old clock tower to begin preservation work.
Cultural Reference:
Scaffolding is often seen in historical European cities like Rome and Paris, where centuries-old monuments are under continuous maintenance — a visual metaphor for the preservation of culture.
Think About It:
Why do we often neglect the importance of temporary support systems like scaffolding, even though they are essential to both growth and preservation?
Quick Activity:
Draw or visualize two forms of scaffolding: one literal (on a building) and one metaphorical (like a mentor helping a student). Label the purpose of each.
Memory Tip:
Think of scaffolding as a “ladder + shield” — it helps you go higher while keeping you safe.
Real-World Application:
"Scaffolding" is widely used in construction and historical preservation. In education, it's also used to describe methods of stepwise learning — where foundational support is gradually removed as students gain independence.
WORD-6: Intervention
Context:
"They were not restored in a way that was faithful to the original. Instead, there was massive intervention in these works, changing their appearance..." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Intervention" refers to the act of deliberately becoming involved in a situation to change or influence it. In this context, the word describes substantial changes made during the restoration of certain works — alterations that went beyond preservation and actually transformed their appearance. This implies that the restorers did not merely conserve but actively interfered, perhaps compromising the authenticity of the original pieces.
Meaning: The act of becoming involved in something to alter or influence it (Noun)
Pronunciation: in-ter-ven-shun
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *intervenire*, meaning “to come between,” formed from *inter-* (“between”) + *venire* (“to come”).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Intervention” is a versatile word — it’s used in medicine, politics, education, and art. It implies intention and control, not just accidental involvement. Learn to distinguish between necessary intervention and harmful interference.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: interference, involvement, modification, mediation, intrusion
Antonyms: noninterference, neglect, passivity, inaction
Usage Examples:
- The restoration involved heavy intervention, altering the original artwork significantly.
- Government intervention helped stabilize the economy during the crisis.
- Early intervention in childhood education leads to better learning outcomes.
- Medical intervention was necessary to prevent the infection from spreading.
Cultural Reference:
The “Ecce Homo” fresco in Spain became infamous after a well-intentioned but poorly executed intervention by an amateur restorer went viral for comically altering the image of Christ.
Think About It:
When does intervention become overreach? Can too much involvement do more harm than good — even with the best intentions?
Quick Activity:
Think of three fields where intervention is common (e.g., healthcare, education, environment). Write one sentence each showing how intervention can be helpful or harmful.
Memory Tip:
Break it down: *inter* = between, *vention* = to come. So intervention is when someone “comes between” a situation to affect its course.
Real-World Application:
“Intervention” is used in fields like social work (intervention programs), international politics (military intervention), and art conservation. It often signals action taken to improve or alter a situation — for better or worse.
WORD-7: Legitimised
Context:
"He found a great deal of support and followers among Buddhists, while Christians called for a ban on human cloning. Hwang legitimised his cloning experiments with his religious affiliation: ‘I am Buddhist, and I have no philosophical problem with cloning.'" - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Legitimised" means to make something acceptable, lawful, or justified in the eyes of society, law, or a moral framework. In this context, Hwang justified or defended his controversial cloning experiments by referring to his Buddhist beliefs, which did not conflict with the idea of cloning. His religious stance thus acted as a tool to morally validate his actions, making them seem more acceptable or ethical to his followers and supporters.
Meaning: Made something acceptable, legal, or morally justified (Verb - past tense of “legitimise”)
Pronunciation: luh-jit-uh-mized
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *legitimus*, meaning “lawful,” derived from *lex* (“law”) + the suffix *-ise* to form a verb in British English spelling ("legitimised" vs. "legitimized").
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Legitimised” is a strong, formal word often used in legal, ethical, or political contexts. It shows how people try to make controversial or doubtful actions seem right or acceptable by appealing to law, culture, or belief systems.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: justified, validated, authorised, legalised, sanctioned
Antonyms: delegitimised, outlawed, condemned, prohibited
Usage Examples:
- The new policy was legitimised through parliamentary approval.
- He legitimised his actions by referencing cultural norms.
- The use of force was legitimised under international law.
- Religious leaders legitimised the reform through public endorsement.
Cultural Reference:
Throughout history, leaders have legitimised power using religion — for example, the "divine right of kings" in Europe, where monarchs claimed authority granted by God.
Think About It:
Can something truly be right just because it’s legitimised by belief or law? Where do we draw the line between justification and manipulation?
Quick Activity:
Think of a real or fictional example where someone legitimised a controversial action. Write one sentence explaining how they did it and whether you agree with their reasoning.
Memory Tip:
Link “legitimised” with “legit” — if something is legit, it has been made acceptable or valid. “Legitimised” = made legit in a formal way.
Real-World Application:
"Legitimised" is often used in discussions of politics, law, religion, and ethics. Understanding how people legitimise their actions helps us analyze social debates, propaganda, and policy-making critically.
WORD-8: Reincarnation
Context:
"I am Buddhist, and I have no philosophical problem with cloning. And as you know, the basis of Buddhism is that life is recycled through reincarnation. In some ways, I think, therapeutic cloning restarts the circle of life." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Reincarnation" refers to the spiritual or philosophical belief that the soul or essence of a person is reborn into a new body after death. This belief is central to many Eastern religions, including Buddhism and Hinduism. In the context above, reincarnation is mentioned to support a perspective that views cloning not as a violation of life but as a continuation of it — a modern, scientific parallel to the spiritual cycle of rebirth. The word ties science and spirituality into a shared idea: life is ongoing and cyclical.
Meaning: The rebirth of a soul in a new body after death (Noun)
Pronunciation: ree-in-kar-nay-shun
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *re-* (“again”) + *incarnare* (“to make flesh”) — literally, “to enter the flesh again.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Reincarnation” is a profound and culturally rich concept. It can be used in discussions about spirituality, philosophy, and even modern debates on biotechnology and the meaning of life. Understand its deep roots in non-Western traditions.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: rebirth, transmigration, metempsychosis, reborn soul
Antonyms: death, extinction, oblivion, finality
Usage Examples:
- Many Hindus believe in reincarnation and that the soul passes through many lifetimes.
- He joked that he must be a reincarnation of a medieval knight because of his fascination with swords.
- The concept of reincarnation brings comfort to those who fear death.
- In Tibetan Buddhism, the Dalai Lama is believed to be a reincarnation of his predecessor.
Cultural Reference:
Reincarnation plays a central role in many religious texts such as the *Bhagavad Gita*, where Krishna explains that the soul is eternal and simply takes on new forms across lifetimes.
Think About It:
What would change about the way we live if we all truly believed in reincarnation? Would our moral or ethical choices be different?
Quick Activity:
Write down what kind of life you think you might have lived in a previous incarnation. Then, write what kind of life you hope to reincarnate into, and why.
Memory Tip:
Break it down: *re-* (again) + *incarnation* (becoming flesh) — reincarnation literally means “becoming flesh again.” Think: the soul takes a new body.
Real-World Application:
"Reincarnation" is often referenced in literature, films, spiritual discourse, and ethical debates about cloning, life, and death. It provides a lens through which to view continuity and change across generations — both spiritually and scientifically.
WORD-9: Antiquity
Context:
"[...], excavated artworks from antiquity were treated quite differently from today. They were not restored in a way that was faithful to the original. Instead, there was massive intervention in these works, changing their appearance." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Antiquity" refers to the ancient past, especially the period of classical civilizations such as Greece, Rome, Egypt, and Mesopotamia. In this context, it describes artworks that were excavated from those early historical eras. The sentence highlights how restoration approaches have evolved over time — what was once considered acceptable (intervening and modifying ancient works) would now be seen as intrusive or disrespectful to the original artistry of antiquity.
Meaning: The ancient past, especially the time of classical civilizations (Noun)
Pronunciation: an-tik-wi-tee
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *antiquitas*, meaning “ancient times,” derived from *antiquus*, meaning “old or former.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Antiquity” is a great word for historical essays, art criticism, and cultural analysis. It doesn’t just mean “old” — it carries with it a sense of heritage, timelessness, and classical beauty.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: ancient times, classical era, the distant past, olden days
Antonyms: modernity, present day, contemporary era, recent times
Usage Examples:
- The ruins date back to Roman antiquity.
- Much of what we know about antiquity comes from archaeology.
- Artifacts from antiquity are displayed in the museum’s special exhibition.
- He has a deep fascination with the literature of antiquity, especially Homer and Virgil.
Cultural Reference:
“Antiquity” often refers to the period spanning from early Mesopotamian civilizations to the fall of the Roman Empire. The art, architecture, and literature of this era have profoundly influenced Western thought.
Think About It:
How should modern societies balance the desire to preserve antiquity with the temptation to modernize or restore it?
Quick Activity:
List three famous objects or structures from antiquity. Write one sentence about what makes each one historically important.
Memory Tip:
Think “antiquity = antique + history” — it refers to the very old, especially from ancient civilizations.
Real-World Application:
"Antiquity" is used frequently in academic fields like archaeology, classical studies, and art history. It helps frame discussions about cultural origins, human achievements, and the legacy of ancient societies.
WORD-10: Fewer Scruples
Context:
"It is probably this intellectual position that explains why Asians have far fewer scruples about cloning than Europeans. The South Korean cloning researcher Hwang Woo-suk, who attracted worldwide attention with his cloning experiments in 2004, is a Buddhist." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Fewer scruples" refers to having less moral hesitation or fewer ethical concerns about a particular action. In the given context, it suggests that many Asians, due to differing philosophical or religious views, are less morally conflicted about cloning than Europeans, who may have more ethical reservations. The word "scruples" highlights the inner moral checks or doubts one might feel when making a decision that involves ethical considerations.
Meaning: Having less hesitation due to ethical or moral doubts (Phrase)
Pronunciation: fyoo-er skroo-puhlz
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: "Scruple" comes from Latin *scrupulus*, meaning a small sharp stone — metaphorically representing a sharp feeling of doubt or hesitation.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
The phrase “fewer scruples” is useful when comparing moral perspectives or cultural attitudes. It doesn’t mean someone is immoral — it means they are less hindered by doubt or inner conflict in certain situations.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: less hesitation, fewer qualms, less moral doubt, more permissiveness
Antonyms: more hesitation, strong ethical concerns, greater moral resistance
Usage Examples:
- She had fewer scruples about using surveillance to catch the thief.
- Some investors have fewer scruples when chasing profit over ethics.
- He acted with fewer scruples than his predecessor, pushing the limits of regulation.
- Certain cultures may have fewer scruples regarding animal testing due to different values.
Cultural Reference:
In literature and politics, characters who act with “fewer scruples” are often portrayed as ambitious and pragmatic — like Macbeth, who gradually loses his moral scruples in Shakespeare’s tragedy.
Think About It:
Is it always wrong to have fewer scruples? Can it sometimes help society advance, especially in areas like science or innovation?
Quick Activity:
Write a comparison of two people: one who has many scruples and one who has fewer scruples. What kind of decisions do they make differently?
Memory Tip:
Think of “scruples” as tiny mental brakes. Having “fewer scruples” means fewer brakes slowing your moral or ethical decisions.
Real-World Application:
The phrase “fewer scruples” is often used in bioethics, politics, and journalism to highlight cultural or individual differences in moral judgment — especially around controversial topics like cloning, war, or surveillance.
