✨ 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:
- Liberalism
- Battlefield
- Aristocracy
- Whisking
- Rampant
- Davos
- Roosevelt
- Oration
- Dismal
- Premodern
WORD-1: Liberalism
Context:
"Over the past four centuries liberalism has been so successful that it has driven all its opponents off the battlefield." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
Liberalism is a political and moral philosophy rooted in the ideals of liberty, individual rights, and equality. It supports the protection of civil liberties, free markets, democratic governance, and the rule of law. Historically, liberalism has played a pivotal role in shaping modern democracies and promoting social and economic progress. The quote suggests that liberalism has been a dominant and enduring ideology, surpassing and replacing rival systems over time.
Meaning: A political and social philosophy advocating for individual rights, freedom, and equality (Noun)
Pronunciation: LIH-buh-ruh-liz-uhm
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin "liberalis" meaning "of freedom," related to "liber" (free), adopted into English via French during the Enlightenment era.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Understand liberalism not just as a political term but as a broader belief system that prioritizes personal freedom and reforms. Key areas include freedom of speech, market capitalism, and equal legal treatment.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: progressivism, democracy, constitutionalism, freedom, individualism
Antonyms: authoritarianism, conservatism, totalitarianism, despotism
Usage Examples:
- Liberalism advocates for the rights of the individual against the power of the state.
- Economic liberalism promotes free-market capitalism and limited government interference.
- Social liberalism seeks to expand civil liberties while addressing social inequalities.
- After centuries of dominance, liberalism is now facing new ideological challenges in many countries.
Cultural Reference:
"Liberalism is the ideology of Western civilization. It shaped the American Constitution and the French Declaration of the Rights of Man." - Inspired by political historian Larry Siedentop
Think About It:
Can a society be too liberal, or is the constant expansion of individual freedoms always a sign of progress?
Quick Activity:
List three liberal policies you are aware of in your country. For each, note whether you support it and why.
Memory Tip:
Think of “liberal” as someone who wants to “liberate”—promoting freedom in politics, economy, and society. Both words start with “liber.”
Real-World Application:
Liberalism influences modern democracies through constitutional rights, freedom of the press, market economies, and protection of minorities. Understanding it is crucial for engaging in informed political discussions.
WORD-2: Battlefield
Context:
"Over the past four centuries liberalism has been so successful that it has driven all its opponents off the battlefield." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
A battlefield is traditionally a place where military forces engage in combat. However, in modern usage, it can also refer to a metaphorical space where ideological, political, or intellectual conflicts occur. In the given sentence, "battlefield" is used metaphorically to suggest that liberalism has won dominance over competing ideologies, leaving no real contenders in the ideological arena.
Meaning: A place or arena of conflict, either literal (war) or figurative (ideas, politics) (Noun)
Pronunciation: BAT-uhl-feeld
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Middle English, combining "battle" (from Old French "bataille") and "field" (from Old English "feld"), meaning the ground or area where battles take place.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Think of “battlefield” as not just limited to wars and soldiers—it can be any space where major struggles or competitions happen, including classrooms, courts, or political debates.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: battleground, war zone, front line, conflict zone, arena
Antonyms: sanctuary, haven, refuge, peace zone
Usage Examples:
- The soldiers bravely marched onto the battlefield despite overwhelming odds.
- The courtroom became a battlefield of legal arguments and heated emotions.
- Social media has become a modern battlefield for public opinion and activism.
- In politics, every election year turns the media landscape into a fierce battlefield of ideologies.
Cultural Reference:
"Love is a battlefield." - Pat Benatar, from her 1983 song, using the word metaphorically to describe emotional struggles in relationships.
Think About It:
In your life, where have you encountered a ‘battlefield’ of ideas or emotions? How did you navigate it?
Quick Activity:
Write two sentences: one using “battlefield” in its literal sense, and one using it metaphorically. Compare the tone and imagery in both.
Memory Tip:
Split the word: “battle” + “field” — imagine a large field where a fight or conflict happens. Easy to visualize!
Real-World Application:
“Battlefield” is widely used in news media, literature, and speeches—understanding both literal and figurative meanings enhances comprehension of global issues and narrative depth.
WORD-3: Aristocracy
Context:
"Equality of opportunity has produced a new meritocratic aristocracy that has all the aloofness of the old aristocracy with none of its sense of noblesse oblige." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
Aristocracy originally refers to a privileged ruling class, typically made up of noble families who inherited their titles, wealth, and influence. Over time, the word has evolved and is sometimes used metaphorically to describe any elite group that holds significant power or influence, whether through birth, wealth, or merit. In the given context, the term is used critically to describe a modern elite class that has replaced the traditional aristocracy—not through heritage, but through achievement—yet still retains the same detachment and superiority without the older sense of duty or responsibility to society ("noblesse oblige").
Meaning: A class of people holding exceptional rank and privileges, especially the hereditary nobility (Noun)
Pronunciation: uh-ris-TAH-kruh-see
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Greek "aristokratia," meaning "rule of the best," from "aristos" (best) + "kratos" (power, rule).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Focus on the transformation of “aristocracy” in modern usage. It’s no longer just about royal blood but about elite status—be it economic, academic, or professional. Think of it as the "new nobility" in a capitalist or meritocratic society.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: nobility, elite, upper class, gentry, high society
Antonyms: proletariat, commoners, peasantry, working class
Usage Examples:
- The French Revolution marked the fall of the aristocracy and the rise of the common people.
- He behaved with the cold detachment of someone raised in an aristocracy, untouched by everyday struggles.
- A new tech aristocracy has emerged, controlling information and wealth in unprecedented ways.
- She criticized the modern aristocracy for lacking a sense of social responsibility.
Cultural Reference:
"The decline of the old aristocracy left a void quickly filled by capitalists and industrialists." - From *The Penguin History of Europe*
Think About It:
In a society that claims to offer equal opportunity, is the rise of a new aristocracy inevitable?
Quick Activity:
List two examples each of traditional aristocracy (historical) and modern aristocracy (based on wealth, education, or influence). Reflect on their differences.
Memory Tip:
Break it down: “Aristo” (best) + “cracy” (rule) = Rule of the best. Remember: “aristocracy” is about elite control, originally by birth, now often by wealth or intellect.
Real-World Application:
The term "aristocracy" is relevant in discussions of class, privilege, and social mobility. Understanding its shifting meaning helps in analyzing political discourse, economic inequality, and power dynamics in modern societies.
WORD-4: Rampant
Context:
"Deneen does an impressive job of capturing the current mood of disillusionment, echoing leftwing complaints about rampant commercialism, right-wing complaints about narcissistic and bullying students, and general worries about atomisation and selfishness." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word “rampant” refers to something that is spreading quickly and uncontrollably, usually in a negative sense. It often conveys a sense of excess, chaos, or unchecked growth. In the given context, “rampant commercialism” suggests that commercial values—such as profit obsession and consumer culture—are excessively influencing society, contributing to disillusionment and social critique from both the left and the right.
Meaning: Widespread and uncontrolled; growing or spreading rapidly, often in a harmful way (Adjective)
Pronunciation: RAM-puhnt
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Old French “ramper” meaning “to climb, rear up,” originally used to describe wild animals rearing up. Over time, it evolved to mean unchecked growth or spread.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Remember that “rampant” is almost always used in a negative context—like a weed, it spreads where it shouldn’t. Common phrases include “rampant corruption,” “rampant inflation,” and “rampant disease.”
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: unchecked, widespread, uncontrolled, unrestrained, pervasive
Antonyms: controlled, limited, restrained, scarce, suppressed
Usage Examples:
- Corruption was rampant in the government, with no accountability in sight.
- The city struggled to contain the rampant spread of misinformation during the crisis.
- Plastic waste is rampant in our oceans, threatening marine life.
- He criticized the media for promoting rampant consumerism among young people.
Cultural Reference:
"Rampant inflation plagued the Weimar Republic, leading to economic chaos." - Referenced in historical documentaries on post-WWI Germany
Think About It:
What happens to a society when certain ideas or behaviors—like commercialism or misinformation—become rampant?
Quick Activity:
Identify three things in your surroundings or current events that are “rampant.” Write a sentence for each using the word correctly.
Memory Tip:
Think of a "ramp"—something going up quickly—and imagine “rampant” as something shooting upward or spreading out wildly and uncontrollably.
Real-World Application:
The word "rampant" is useful in social, political, and environmental discussions to describe issues that are growing unchecked—like corruption, crime, pollution, or misinformation.
WORD-5: Davos
Context:
"What better proof of this than the vision of 1,000 private planes whisking their occupants to Davos to discuss the question of ‘creating a shared future in a fragmented world’?" - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Davos” refers to the town in Switzerland that hosts the annual World Economic Forum (WEF), a high-profile gathering of global leaders from politics, business, and civil society. While Davos is a real place, it has become a symbolic reference to global elite discourse, power networking, and often, perceived hypocrisy. In the context provided, Davos represents the irony of affluent elites using excessive resources to convene and talk about solving global inequality and environmental issues—hence, it’s used with a tone of criticism or satire.
Meaning: A Swiss town known globally for hosting the World Economic Forum, often symbolizing elite global summits and power gatherings (Proper Noun)
Pronunciation: DAH-vohs
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic (in cultural literacy)
Etymology: Originally the name of a town in the canton of Graubünden, Switzerland; gained symbolic meaning due to the annual WEF conference starting in 1971.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Understand “Davos” not just as a location, but as a shorthand for elite power structures. Think of it like how “Hollywood” means more than a place—it means an industry or mindset. Davos often implies globalism, corporate influence, and elite discourse.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: global summit, elite gathering, international forum (contextual)
Antonyms: grassroots meeting, local assembly, public forum
Usage Examples:
- Every January, world leaders descend on Davos to discuss pressing global challenges.
- Critics argue that Davos is more about networking than enacting real change.
- He referred to the Davos attendees as out of touch with the everyday struggles of ordinary people.
- Davos has become symbolic of the gap between global elites and the rest of the world.
Cultural Reference:
"Davos Man" is a term coined by political scientist Samuel P. Huntington to describe a transnational elite more loyal to global capitalism than national identity.
Think About It:
Can forums like Davos truly solve global problems, or do they reinforce the very inequalities they claim to address?
Quick Activity:
Research one topic discussed at the last Davos summit and write a short paragraph on whether the proposals made had any real-world impact.
Memory Tip:
Think of “Davos” as “the Alps summit of elites”—D for “deciders,” A for “affluent,” V for “VIPs,” O for “opinions,” and S for “summits.”
Real-World Application:
Understanding “Davos” helps decode discussions in global politics, media, and economics, especially when analyzing power dynamics, climate negotiations, and economic inequality.
WORD-6: Whisking
Context:
"What better proof of this than the vision of 1,000 private planes whisking their occupants to Davos to discuss the question of ‘creating a shared future in a fragmented world’?" - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Whisking” here means moving someone or something quickly and often smoothly from one place to another. It conveys a sense of speed, elegance, and sometimes secrecy or efficiency. In this sentence, the word emphasizes the rapid and luxurious transport of elite individuals via private jets to Davos. The use of “whisking” adds a visual and somewhat ironic flair, contrasting the idea of addressing global fragmentation with the extravagant, isolated means of arriving there.
Meaning: To move or transport someone or something quickly and lightly (Verb)
Pronunciation: WHIS-king
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Middle English “whisken,” meaning to sweep or move briskly, likely imitative of a swishing sound.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Whisking” usually adds energy and speed to a sentence. It's often used to show quick transportation or action. It can also imply lightness or elegance—very different from the heavier, mechanical "transporting."
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: speed, rush, sweep, dart, zip, fly
Antonyms: drag, delay, dawdle, plod
Usage Examples:
- The driver whisked the celebrity away before the crowd could gather.
- A helicopter was waiting to whisk the injured hiker to safety.
- She was whisked off her feet by the whirlwind romance.
- The breeze whisked the leaves across the garden path.
Cultural Reference:
In many fairy tales and spy films, characters are often “whisked away” to magical lands or secret locations—this gives the phrase a romantic or thrilling feel.
Think About It:
What feelings or impressions does the word “whisking” create when compared to more neutral terms like “taking” or “transporting”?
Quick Activity:
Write three sentences where someone or something is being “whisked” away. Vary the tone—make one exciting, one romantic, and one funny.
Memory Tip:
Think of a kitchen “whisk” moving fast and lightly in circles. Apply that image to motion: quick, smooth, and efficient—like a jet “whisking” someone away.
Real-World Application:
“Whisking” is useful in writing and journalism to convey elegance or urgency in travel or rescue operations. It adds flavor and pace to narratives, making descriptions more vivid.
WORD-7: Roosevelt
Context:
"Theodore Roosevelt took on the trusts. Progressives cleaned up government corruption. University reformers modernised academic syllabuses and built ladders of opportunity." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Roosevelt” in this sentence refers to **Theodore Roosevelt**, the 26th President of the United States (1901–1909), known for his progressive reforms and vigorous leadership. He was famous for taking on large monopolies—called "trusts"—to promote fair competition. Roosevelt symbolizes the progressive movement in early 20th-century America, where efforts were made to limit corporate power, reduce corruption, and increase opportunity. In a broader sense, the name "Roosevelt" also evokes values of bold leadership and reform, particularly in public policy and governance.
Meaning: Refers to Theodore Roosevelt, a U.S. President known for anti-trust actions and progressive reforms (Proper Noun)
Pronunciation: ROH-zuh-velt or ROSE-uh-velt
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic (as a historical reference)
Etymology: The surname “Roosevelt” is of Dutch origin, meaning “rose field.” Theodore Roosevelt was a member of the Roosevelt political family, which also included Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd U.S. President.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Think of “Roosevelt” not just as a person, but as a symbol of strong, reform-driven leadership. When the name appears in political or historical texts, it's often shorthand for courage, progressivism, and anti-monopoly action.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: reformer, trust-buster, progressive leader (contextual)
Antonyms: monopolist, conservative (context-dependent)
Usage Examples:
- Roosevelt was known for his “Square Deal” policies aimed at protecting workers and consumers.
- In American history, Roosevelt stands out as a president who curbed corporate power.
- Modern politicians sometimes invoke Roosevelt when promoting bold reform agendas.
- Roosevelt’s conservation efforts led to the creation of many national parks.
Cultural Reference:
“Speak softly and carry a big stick—you will go far.” – Theodore Roosevelt, famously expressing his foreign policy philosophy.
Think About It:
In today's political climate, what would a "Rooseveltian" approach to reform look like? Are such strong reformist ideals still possible?
Quick Activity:
Research one major reform initiated by Theodore Roosevelt and write a short paragraph explaining its purpose and long-term impact.
Memory Tip:
Associate “Roosevelt” with “R” for “Reform” and “Rough Rider”—his military nickname. That helps link the name to strong, progressive leadership and action.
Real-World Application:
Knowing who Roosevelt was helps understand American political history, especially the rise of progressive policies. His legacy informs current debates on corporate regulation, environmental protection, and government accountability.
WORD-8: Oration
Context:
"The best way to read 'Why Liberalism Failed' is not as a funeral oration but as a call to action: up your game, or else." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
An "oration" is a formal and often ceremonial speech, usually delivered on important occasions such as funerals, graduations, or public events. The word carries a sense of dignity and structure. In the provided sentence, the author urges readers not to interpret the book as a solemn, final speech (a “funeral oration”) marking the death of liberalism, but rather as a provocative speech urging renewal and responsibility. The contrast highlights the power of words—whether to mourn or to motivate.
Meaning: A formal speech given on a ceremonial or special occasion (Noun)
Pronunciation: oh-RAY-shun
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin "oratio," meaning "a speech," derived from "orare" (to speak or pray).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Think of “oration” as a grand or elevated kind of speech—not something you'd hear in everyday conversation. It often carries a persuasive or reflective tone and is linked with public or ceremonial discourse.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: speech, address, discourse, lecture, sermon
Antonyms: silence, muttering, casual talk, chit-chat
Usage Examples:
- The mayor delivered a stirring oration at the city’s independence celebration.
- His funeral oration was filled with heartfelt memories and words of tribute.
- As an orator, she crafted every oration with clarity and emotional impact.
- The commencement oration reminded the graduates of their responsibilities to society.
Cultural Reference:
One of the most famous orations in history is Abraham Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address,” delivered during the American Civil War to honor fallen soldiers and redefine national purpose.
Think About It:
In today’s digital world, do formal orations still hold power, or are they being replaced by tweets and soundbites?
Quick Activity:
Write a brief oration (3–5 lines) on a topic you care about. Read it aloud with emphasis to practice your tone and delivery.
Memory Tip:
Think “oration” = “oral + presentation.” If it sounds like a speech and feels formal, it’s probably an oration.
Real-World Application:
Understanding orations is useful in political science, literature, and public speaking. They help analyze persuasive techniques and emotional appeals used by leaders and writers.
WORD-9: Dismal
Context:
"Rather than dying, liberalism reformed itself. Mr Deneen is right to point out that the record of liberalism in recent years has been dismal." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word “dismal” is used to describe something that is very bad, gloomy, or disappointing. It often conveys a sense of hopelessness or failure. In the sentence above, “dismal” is used to criticize the recent performance or impact of liberalism, suggesting that it has failed to live up to expectations and has produced poor results. The tone is negative and highlights a sense of underachievement or decline.
Meaning: Very bad, depressing, or gloomy; showing or causing a lack of hope (Adjective)
Pronunciation: DIZ-muhl
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Middle English "dismal day," originally meaning “unlucky day,” from Latin *dies mali* meaning “evil days.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Dismal” is an emotionally charged adjective—perfect for expressing deep disappointment or negativity. Think of it as one step worse than “bad.” It adds a sense of gloom or futility to your sentence.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: bleak, depressing, miserable, gloomy, dreadful
Antonyms: bright, cheerful, promising, hopeful, excellent
Usage Examples:
- The team’s performance in the tournament was dismal, winning no matches.
- She stared out at the dismal weather, dreading another grey day.
- The company’s dismal sales figures led to widespread layoffs.
- Critics described the movie as dismal, with poor acting and a weak plot.
Cultural Reference:
In Charles Dickens’ novels, many scenes are set in dismal environments—foggy streets, bleak orphanages—to reflect societal despair and injustice.
Think About It:
Can labeling something as “dismal” shut down conversation, or can it be a starting point for improvement and reform?
Quick Activity:
List three situations you might describe as “dismal.” Then rewrite those same situations using more hopeful or constructive language.
Memory Tip:
Think of “dismal” as a combination of “dim” + “small”—dim light and small hope = dismal outlook.
Real-World Application:
“Dismal” is often used in journalism, economics, and politics to describe poor results—like dismal job growth or dismal public support. Recognizing its tone helps in interpreting the writer’s stance.
WORD-10: Premodern
Context:
"He is also right to assert that the world has much to learn from the premodern notions of liberty as self-mastery and self-denial. The biggest enemy of liberalism is not so much atomisation but old-fashioned greed, as members of the Davos elite pile their plates ever higher with perks and share options. But he is wrong to argue that the only way for people to liberate themselves from the contradictions of liberalism is 'liberation from liberalism itself'." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
The term “premodern” refers to the period or worldview before the advent of modernity—typically before the Enlightenment, Industrial Revolution, and modern liberal ideologies. In this context, “premodern notions of liberty” refer to older, classical or religious ideas of freedom—not as the ability to do whatever one wants, but as the cultivation of discipline, virtue, and moral self-control. These ideals emphasized character, duty, and the betterment of the soul over individual expression and consumption. The word serves as a contrast to contemporary values of personal freedom and consumer-driven identity.
Meaning: Relating to a time or mindset before the modern era; especially before the Enlightenment or industrial societies (Adjective)
Pronunciation: pree-MOD-ern
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin roots: “pre-” meaning “before” and “modernus” meaning “of the present age.” The term came into broader use in contrast to modern and postmodern paradigms.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Premodern” isn’t just a historical label—it’s a way of thinking. In ethics and politics, it often involves religious, communal, or virtue-based approaches, which differ significantly from modern individualism and rights-based frameworks.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: traditional, classical, ancient, archaic, early
Antonyms: modern, contemporary, futuristic, progressive
Usage Examples:
- The philosopher praised the premodern ideals of virtue and moral education.
- In premodern societies, liberty was tied to duty and moral self-restraint, not personal indulgence.
- The museum exhibit focuses on premodern life before urbanization and industrialization took hold.
- Premodern literature often reflects a worldview governed by religion and cosmic order.
Cultural Reference:
Thinkers like Aristotle and St. Augustine represent premodern views of liberty and ethics—centering on the development of virtue and harmony with natural or divine law.
Think About It:
Can premodern ideas of self-discipline and moral character still be relevant in an age of hyper-individualism and instant gratification?
Quick Activity:
Write two contrasting definitions of liberty: one from a modern perspective, and one from a premodern viewpoint. Reflect on which one feels more sustainable or meaningful.
Memory Tip:
Break it into “pre” (before) + “modern” — remember: it’s everything before Wi-Fi, smartphones, and liberal democracies.
Real-World Application:
Understanding premodern concepts helps in fields like philosophy, political science, theology, and ethics. It offers a valuable counterpoint to modern assumptions about freedom, progress, and identity.
