✨ 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:
- Grumble
- Eradicated
- Grazing
- Predators
- mainland
- tramping
- forbidden
- occasional
- lupine
- wolves
WORD-1: Grumble
Context:
"In remote hamlets and villages, with names such as Le Bacon and Le Bacon Vieux, mayors grumble about a lack of local schools, jobs, or phone and internet connections." – Source: Journalistic Report on Rural Infrastructure Challenges
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Grumble” means to complain quietly or in a low voice, often with dissatisfaction that is persistent but not aggressive. In this context, mayors “grumble” about inadequate services, expressing frustration about poor infrastructure in rural areas. The word conveys irritation, often linked to everyday concerns, and adds a human, sometimes sympathetic tone to expressions of discontent. Unlike harsh protest or criticism, a grumble suggests a simmering, resigned kind of complaint that still signals neglect or unmet needs.
Meaning: To complain in a low or muted voice, often about everyday frustrations (Verb/Noun)
Pronunciation: GRUHM-buhl
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: Possibly of imitative origin, related to Middle English *gromelen* or *grommelen*—to murmur or mutter indistinctly
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Grumble” is a great word for describing informal, habitual, or low-level complaints. It adds a tone of realism, especially in journalistic or narrative writing. It’s softer than protest or outrage, but still reflects discontent with real issues.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: complain, mutter, moan, gripe, whine
Antonyms: praise, applaud, celebrate, accept
Usage Examples:
- The villagers grumbled about long bus waits and closed clinics.
- Despite his success, he still grumbled over minor inconveniences.
- The workers grumble quietly, aware their voices might not be heard.
- There was a soft grumble in the council hall when the budget cuts were announced.
Cultural Reference:
"Grumbling may not spark revolutions, but it keeps pressure on the system—and reminds us that silence isn’t always agreement." – Civic Journalism Handbook
Think About It:
Is grumbling a form of resistance or resignation? When does a complaint move from background noise to real change?
Quick Activity:
Write two grumbling-style complaints about everyday life—use a tone that shows low-key frustration, and include the word “grumble.”
Memory Tip:
“Grumble” sounds like a muttering stomach—low, repetitive, unsettled. Think of it as quiet but persistent discontent.
Real-World Application:
“Grumble” is frequently used in journalism, fiction, and workplace communication to depict minor but meaningful discontent. It’s useful for adding nuance to characters, community issues, and daily frustrations.
WORD-2: Eradicated
Context:
"Farmers of grazing animals add another concern: the return of wolves. Eradicated from France last century, the predators are gradually creeping back to more forests and hillsides." – Source: Environmental News on Wildlife Management
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Eradicated” means completely eliminated, removed, or wiped out, often through deliberate and sustained effort. In this context, wolves were **eradicated** from France in the past—intentionally hunted and driven to extinction in that region due to perceived threats to livestock. The word conveys a strong, final sense of removal, often used in contexts such as disease control, invasive species, or historical injustices. It can carry neutral, positive, or negative connotations depending on what is being eradicated and why.
Meaning: Completely removed or destroyed; eliminated (Verb – past tense and past participle of "eradicate")
Pronunciation: ih-RAD-ih-kay-tid
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *eradicare*, meaning “to root out” (*e-* = out + *radix* = root)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Use “eradicated” for strong, complete actions—whether positive (e.g., eradicating polio) or controversial (e.g., eradicated species or cultures). It’s a powerful verb in journalism, science, and policy writing. Be aware of tone—it can suggest justice, destruction, or loss.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: eliminated, exterminated, wiped out, removed, destroyed
Antonyms: preserved, introduced, revived, restored
Usage Examples:
- The smallpox virus was successfully eradicated through global vaccination programs.
- Wolves were once eradicated from much of Western Europe, but are now returning.
- The new law aims to eradicate corruption in government tenders.
- Colonial efforts often eradicated indigenous traditions and knowledge systems.
Cultural Reference:
"Eradication is a powerful concept—whether in medicine, war, or environmental policy—because it leaves no room for return." – Environmental Ethics Forum
Think About It:
What are the ethical limits of eradication? Should any species or practice be entirely wiped out, or are there always unintended consequences?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “eradicated” to describe a major historical or environmental event. Consider both the intent and the outcome.
Memory Tip:
“Eradicated” = *e* (out) + *radix* (root) → think of pulling a weed out by the root—completely removing it so it can’t return.
Real-World Application:
“Eradicated” is commonly used in medicine (disease eradication), environmental science (invasive species), social policy (poverty eradication), and conflict (militant eradication). It's a decisive word—ideal for policy, critique, or ethical debate.
WORD-3: Grazing
Context:
"Farmers of grazing animals add another concern: the return of wolves. Eradicated from France last century, the predators are gradually creeping back to more forests and hillsides." – Source: Environmental News on Rural Farming and Wildlife
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Grazing” refers to the act of animals feeding on grass or low vegetation, usually in open fields or pastures. In this context, “grazing animals” like sheep, goats, and cattle are at risk from returning predators like wolves. Grazing is central to traditional agriculture and rural economies, particularly in areas with large open landscapes. The term also extends into environmental discussions related to land use, sustainability, and animal-human conflict in farming zones.
Meaning: The act of feeding on grass or low vegetation, typically by livestock (Noun/Verb – present participle of “graze”)
Pronunciation: GRAY-zing
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Old English *grasian*, related to *græs* (grass), meaning “to feed on grass”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Grazing” is key in agricultural and environmental vocabulary. It links land, livestock, and ecology. It’s especially relevant in debates about land use, deforestation, carbon impact, and food security. Also watch for its metaphorical use—e.g., “grazing over information.”
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: feeding, browsing, foraging, pasturing
Antonyms: starving, resting, stabled (contextual)
Usage Examples:
- Grazing animals such as sheep are vulnerable to predator attacks.
- Overgrazing can degrade soil quality and lead to desertification.
- The hills are covered with grazing goats and scattered wildflowers.
- Rotational grazing helps maintain pasture health and livestock productivity.
Cultural Reference:
"Grazing is not just farming—it’s a cultural rhythm in many rural communities, shaping calendars, landscapes, and livelihoods." – Rural Life Studies Journal
Think About It:
How does the return of predators like wolves challenge or enrich grazing-based farming traditions? What balance should be struck between agriculture and wildlife conservation?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “grazing” that reflects a rural or environmental theme. Try to include both an animal and a landscape feature.
Memory Tip:
“Grazing” = think “grass-ing.” It’s animals slowly munching their way through meadows, often peacefully—but not always without risk.
Real-World Application:
“Grazing” is relevant in farming, ecology, climate science, and even tourism (e.g., pastoral landscapes). It informs conversations about land stewardship, food systems, predator reintroduction, and rural resilience.
WORD-4: Predators
Context:
"As early as the ninth century, the royal office of the Luparii—wolf-catchers—was created in France to tackle the predators. Those official hunters (and others) completed their job in the 1930s, when the last wolf disappeared from the mainland." – Source: Historical Account of Wildlife Management in France
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Predators” are animals that hunt, kill, and eat other animals for food. In this context, the term refers specifically to wolves, which were historically considered dangerous to livestock and rural communities in France. Predators play a crucial role in ecosystems by maintaining population balance, but they have also been seen as threats to human livelihoods. The word is used both in ecological science and in broader metaphorical language to describe aggression, competition, or dominance.
Meaning: Animals that hunt and feed on other animals (Noun – plural)
Pronunciation: PREH-duh-terz
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *praedator*, meaning “plunderer,” from *praedari* (“to plunder or hunt”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Predators” is a key term in both biology and human-animal conflict studies. It can carry fearsome, natural, or symbolic connotations. When used metaphorically, it often refers to exploiters in social or economic contexts—so watch for tone and usage.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: hunters, carnivores, beasts of prey, killers (biological)
Antonyms: prey, herbivores, grazers, victims (contextual)
Usage Examples:
- Wolves and bears are natural predators in European forests.
- The reintroduction of predators restored ecological balance to the region.
- In the corporate world, some CEOs behave like economic predators, devouring weaker rivals.
- Predators help control herbivore populations, preventing overgrazing.
Cultural Reference:
"The predator-prey relationship is one of nature's most ancient and delicate balances—necessary for biodiversity and survival." – David Attenborough, *Planet Earth*
Think About It:
Why do humans fear predators even when they are ecologically necessary? Can coexistence between predators and farming communities be achieved?
Quick Activity:
List two land predators and one sea predator. Then write one sentence about how each contributes to its ecosystem.
Memory Tip:
“Predators” = *prey + eaters*. Think of powerful hunters—like lions or wolves—at the top of the food chain.
Real-World Application:
“Predators” is a foundational word in biology, conservation, agriculture, and metaphorical writing. It helps frame debates on biodiversity, rewilding, fear narratives, and ecological ethics.
WORD-5: Occasional
Context:
"The mostly protected status of the wolf in Europe—hunting them is now forbidden, other than when occasional culls are sanctioned by the state—plus the efforts of NGOs to track and count the animals, also contribute to the recovery of wolf populations." – Source: Environmental Policy Report on European Wildlife
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Occasional” describes something that happens from time to time but not regularly or frequently. In this context, it refers to culls (controlled killings) of wolves that are permitted only in rare or exceptional circumstances by government authorities. The word helps emphasize that such actions are not standard practice, but rather exceptions to a general rule—here, the protected status of wolves. It adds nuance to discussions about policy, behavior, or events that are limited or irregular in occurrence.
Meaning: Happening infrequently or at irregular intervals; not constant (Adjective)
Pronunciation: uh-KAY-zhuh-nuhl
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *occasio*, meaning “a falling or happening,” combined with the English suffix *-al* for adjective formation
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Occasional” is a useful word in academic and descriptive writing when you need to convey that something is rare, exceptional, or infrequent. It’s neutral in tone and works across disciplines—environmental studies, literature, sociology, and more.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: infrequent, rare, intermittent, sporadic, periodic
Antonyms: frequent, regular, constant, habitual
Usage Examples:
- Occasional culls are allowed to manage predator populations and prevent livestock loss.
- She makes occasional visits to the countryside to escape city life.
- The policy permits occasional exceptions under extreme circumstances.
- Though retired, he still gives occasional guest lectures at the university.
Cultural Reference:
"An occasional action may seem harmless in isolation—but patterns emerge from repetition or absence." – Policy Design Seminar
Think About It:
Can the word “occasional” soften the perception of controversial actions or policies? When does ‘infrequent’ still carry significant impact?
Quick Activity:
Write two sentences using “occasional”: one describing a personal habit, and another describing a government or environmental policy.
Memory Tip:
“Occasional” = think of “special occasions”—they don’t happen often, but when they do, they matter.
Real-World Application:
“Occasional” is widely used in journalism, academic writing, and conversation to describe events, behaviors, or interventions that are rare but not entirely absent. It’s important for framing frequency and tone in policy or storytelling.
WORD-6: Mainland
Context:
"Those official hunters (and others) completed their job in the 1930s, when the last wolf disappeared from the mainland." – Source: Historical Account of Wildlife Management in France
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Mainland” refers to the principal landmass of a country or continent, as opposed to its islands or territories. In this context, it highlights that wolves were eradicated from continental France, even though they may have survived elsewhere (such as on surrounding islands or in border regions). The word is used in geographical, political, and environmental contexts to distinguish the core territory from outlying or remote areas. It often carries implications of accessibility, governance, and centrality in relation to islands or overseas territories.
Meaning: The main part of a country or continent, excluding its islands or remote areas (Noun)
Pronunciation: MAYN-land
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Old English *mǣn* (“main”) + *land*; used historically to distinguish central territory from outlying regions
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Use “mainland” in geographical, political, or environmental discussions. It’s especially helpful when contrasting central power or development with island or borderland regions. In essays, it can be used metaphorically to describe dominance or cultural centrality.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: continent, heartland, central region
Antonyms: island, offshore region, periphery
Usage Examples:
- The species has vanished from the mainland but survives on isolated islands.
- Mainland France saw the extinction of wolves by the early 20th century.
- Supplies were delayed due to storms between the island and the mainland.
- Islanders often have different customs and dialects than their mainland counterparts.
Cultural Reference:
"Mainland versus island narratives often shape political debates about autonomy, identity, and belonging—as seen in Scotland, Hawaii, and Taiwan." – Global Geography Forum
Think About It:
How does being part of a mainland influence culture, economy, and visibility compared to living on an island or in a remote territory?
Quick Activity:
Write one sentence comparing life on the mainland to life on an island. Use “mainland” to emphasize access, population, or environment.
Memory Tip:
“Mainland” = *main* + *land* → the main piece of land, not surrounded by sea. Think of the continent compared to nearby islands.
Real-World Application:
“Mainland” is essential in geography, travel, and environmental policy. It’s used to discuss wildlife distribution, infrastructure, culture, and power dynamics between core and peripheral regions.
WORD-7: Tramping
Context:
"In the mid-to-late 20th century over 2m hunters regularly spent winter weekends tramping in woodland, seeking boars, birds and other prey." – Source: Historical Account of Hunting Culture in Europe
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Tramping” refers to walking heavily or with purpose, especially over rough terrain or for long distances. In this context, it describes hunters moving steadily and determinedly through forests in search of game. The word often conveys physical effort and endurance, and may also suggest a rhythmical, repetitive motion. While “tramping” can be neutral or even poetic in outdoor writing, it can also imply something noisy or forceful depending on tone and context.
Meaning: Walking heavily, deliberately, or long distances, especially through rough or natural areas (Verb – present participle of “tramp”)
Pronunciation: TRAMP-ing
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Middle English *trampen* (“to stamp or tread”), related to Old French *trampe* (a heavy footstep)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Tramping” is vivid and sensory—it paints a picture of movement, usually through wild or challenging landscapes. It’s great for descriptive writing about travel, nature, or labor. Be aware of tone—it can sound adventurous or laborious depending on context.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: trekking, hiking, trudging, stomping, roaming
Antonyms: resting, gliding, skipping, standing still
Usage Examples:
- They spent the day tramping through the forest in search of wild mushrooms.
- Tramping in muddy boots, the hunters left a trail behind them.
- The soldier recalled long nights tramping over snow-covered hills.
- Writers often describe tramping as a metaphor for endurance and solitude.
Cultural Reference:
"Tramping across rugged terrain is a symbol of old-world masculinity and connection to land in many European and colonial narratives." – Environmental History Review
Think About It:
What does “tramping” suggest about the relationship between humans and nature? Is it about dominance, survival, or exploration?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “tramping” to describe movement through a natural setting—add an emotion or goal to make it vivid.
Memory Tip:
“Tramping” = think *thump, thump, thump*—steady, forceful steps echoing through the woods or hills.
Real-World Application:
“Tramping” is often found in travel writing, nature essays, hunting lore, and historical fiction. It helps build atmosphere and express physical or emotional perseverance in a narrative.
WORD-8: Forbidden
Context:
"The mostly protected status of the wolf in Europe—hunting them is now forbidden, other than when occasional culls are sanctioned by the state—plus the efforts of NGOs to track and count the animals, also contribute to the recovery of wolf populations." – Source: Environmental Policy Report on European Wildlife
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Forbidden” means officially or legally not allowed; it implies a strong prohibition against doing something. In this context, hunting wolves is **forbidden** across much of Europe due to their protected status under conservation laws. The word emphasizes strict regulation, usually backed by legal or moral authority. It's often used in contexts involving law, religion, or societal norms to describe actions that are disallowed for ethical, environmental, or safety reasons.
Meaning: Not permitted by law, rule, or authority; prohibited (Adjective)
Pronunciation: for-BID-n
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Old English *forbēodan* (“to command against”), from *for-* (“against”) + *bēodan* (“to command or proclaim”)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Forbidden” carries a weight of authority—use it when discussing laws, sacred texts, or conservation rules. It adds seriousness and structure to your argument, and pairs well with policy, tradition, and discipline topics.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: prohibited, banned, disallowed, outlawed, restricted
Antonyms: permitted, allowed, legal, authorized
Usage Examples:
- Hunting wolves is strictly forbidden in most European countries.
- Access to the sacred site is forbidden without proper permission.
- Children were forbidden from entering the forest after dark.
- The treaty forbids the use of certain types of weaponry in conflict zones.
Cultural Reference:
“The concept of the 'forbidden' appears throughout literature—from the forbidden fruit in *Genesis* to Romeo and Juliet’s forbidden love—often symbolizing temptation, rebellion, and consequence.” – Literary Symbolism Lecture Notes
Think About It:
What makes something “forbidden” in society—laws, morality, fear, or control? Can breaking a forbidden rule ever be justified?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence using “forbidden” in a legal, cultural, or moral context. Try to evoke a sense of consequence or tension.
Memory Tip:
“Forbidden” = *for* (against) + *bidden* (commanded) → something strongly ordered *against*. Think of a red sign: DO NOT ENTER.
Real-World Application:
“Forbidden” is used in law, religion, conservation, and literature to express limits on behavior. It’s effective in arguments about rights, responsibility, and environmental ethics—especially when laws intersect with values.
WORD-9: Lupine
Context:
"As the lupine population of Europe spreads westwards, with occasional reports of wolves seen closer to urban areas, expect to hear of more clashes between farmers and those who celebrate the predators’ return." – Source: Environmental Coverage on Wildlife Resurgence
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Lupine” is an adjective that means “relating to or resembling a wolf.” In this context, “the lupine population” refers to the growing number of wolves spreading across Europe. The word adds a scientific and literary flavor to wildlife discussions, often used in ecology, zoology, and poetic descriptions. It evokes the characteristics typically associated with wolves—wildness, predation, sharp instincts, and a complex role in natural ecosystems. Note that “lupine” can also refer to a type of flowering plant, but that’s a different usage entirely.
Meaning: Relating to or characteristic of wolves (Adjective)
Pronunciation: LOO-pine or LOO-pin (both are accepted)
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *lupinus*, from *lupus* meaning “wolf”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Lupine” adds elegance and specificity to discussions about wolves. It's great for scientific writing, nature essays, or when you want to give a slightly poetic tone to animal descriptions. Don’t confuse it with the plant “lupine,” which has a completely different botanical meaning.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: wolf-like, predatory, wild (contextual)
Antonyms: domestic, tame, docile
Usage Examples:
- The lupine presence in the region has caused concern among livestock farmers.
- She wrote about the lupine instincts buried deep in even the most social animals.
- Lupine characteristics include sharp senses, territorial behavior, and pack loyalty.
- The conservationist tracked the lupine species using infrared cameras in the Alps.
Cultural Reference:
“Lupine symbolism often reflects themes of fear, mystery, and strength—rooted in both mythology and modern environmental debates.” – Wildlife and Culture Journal
Think About It:
How does changing the language—from “wolves” to “lupine population”—alter how we think about animals in ecological or political debates?
Quick Activity:
Write a sentence describing a wild landscape using the word “lupine.” Try to evoke a sense of movement, instinct, or conflict.
Memory Tip:
“Lupine” = from *lupus*, Latin for wolf. Think: *Lupo* (wolf in Italian) or Remus and Romulus raised by a *lupine* creature in Roman mythology.
Real-World Application:
“Lupine” appears in biology, literature, conservation discourse, and occasionally in cultural commentary. It offers a precise and elegant alternative to “wolf-related,” useful for nuanced academic or descriptive writing.
WORD-10: Wolves
Context:
"As the lupine population of Europe spreads westwards, with occasional reports of wolves seen closer to urban areas, expect to hear of more clashes between farmers and those who celebrate the predators’ return." – From a contemporary article on wildlife reintroduction
Explanatory Paragraph:
"Wolves" are large, social carnivorous mammals belonging to the dog family. Known for living and hunting in packs, wolves once roamed much of Europe, Asia, and North America. In recent years, conservation efforts have led to a resurgence of wolf populations in areas they were once driven out of. While some view their return as a victory for biodiversity, others—especially farmers—see them as threats to livestock. In this context, "wolves" symbolize both environmental recovery and the complex tensions between nature and human activity.
Meaning: Wild, predatory animals from the dog family that often live and hunt in packs (Noun – plural of “wolf”)
Pronunciation: wuhlvz
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic to Intermediate
Etymology: From Old English *wulf*, related to German *Wolf* and Latin *lupus*, meaning "wolf."
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Wolves” is a high-frequency metaphorical word in literature, journalism, and politics. Beyond the animal, it often connotes danger, cunning, and predation. Here, it’s used in an ecological and political context—reminding us that language and wildlife both stir strong opinions.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: predators, carnivores, pack animals, canines
Antonyms: prey, herbivores, domesticated animals
Usage Examples:
- Wolves were reintroduced into the region as part of a conservation initiative.
- The pack of wolves moved stealthily through the snowy forest.
- Farmers are concerned about wolves preying on their livestock.
- Some activists see wolves as symbols of wildness and ecological balance.
Cultural Reference:
Wolves feature prominently in folklore and literature, such as the “Big Bad Wolf” in *Little Red Riding Hood* or the direwolves in *Game of Thrones*, often symbolizing either menace or noble wildness.
Think About It:
Can the return of wolves be seen as a restoration of natural balance—or is it a disruption to human agriculture and rural life? Who decides which version of "progress" matters more?
Quick Activity:
Research and list two pros and two cons of wolf reintroduction in any country. Share how public opinion is divided on the issue.
Memory Tip:
Imagine a wolf *prowling in a pack*—this helps you remember wolves are not just lone hunters but social, strategic animals.
Real-World Application:
Understanding the role of wolves is important in environmental science and policymaking. Their return sparks debates on biodiversity, rural livelihoods, and how we define coexistence between humans and nature.
