✨ 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:
- Craftsmanship
- Necessitates
- Preponderant
- Artisanship
- Willing
- Monopolies
- Agile
- Communal
- Medieval
- Devotion
WORD-1: Craftsmanship
Context:
"The idea of craftsmanship is not simply nostalgic. . . . Crafts require distinct skills, an allround approach to work that involves the whole product, rather than individual parts, and an attitude that necessitates devotion to the job and a focus on the communal interest." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
Craftsmanship refers to the high level of skill and care someone applies to their work, especially in making things by hand. It emphasizes quality, attention to detail, and a deep sense of pride and responsibility toward creating something of enduring value. It is often seen as a blend of talent, dedication, and thoughtful execution, where the maker is deeply invested in the process and outcome.
Meaning: The quality of design and work shown in something made by hand; artistry or skill in a particular craft (noun)
Pronunciation: kraft-smən-ship
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Middle English 'craft' (skill, strength) + 'ship' (state or condition of being)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Craftsmanship is more than just skill; it's an ethos. It reflects a commitment to excellence and personal involvement in one's work. Whether in art, writing, or carpentry, true craftsmanship implies care, pride, and a sense of ownership. In a world of mass production, craftsmanship stands out as a mark of authenticity.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: artistry, skill, workmanship, finesse, expertise
Antonyms: clumsiness, inexperience, amateurism, ineptitude
Usage Examples:
- The furniture’s elegant design and fine craftsmanship made it a centerpiece of the room.
- True craftsmanship can be seen in the way he hand-stitched every detail of the leather bag.
- The restoration of the temple was a remarkable display of historical craftsmanship.
- She admired the craftsmanship of the quilt, knowing it took months to complete.
Cultural Reference:
"Craftsmanship names an enduring, basic human impulse, the desire to do a job well for its own sake." - Richard Sennett, *The Craftsman*
Think About It:
In a world driven by automation and efficiency, does the value of craftsmanship still hold the same significance?
Quick Activity:
List three items you own that demonstrate excellent craftsmanship. Write a sentence about what makes each item special.
Memory Tip:
Think of “craft” as a skill and “ship” as a state of being — so "craftsmanship" is the state of being skilled at a craft!
Real-World Application:
Craftsmanship is highly valued in fields like carpentry, fashion design, software engineering, culinary arts, and any profession where quality and attention to detail matter. It’s what separates a good product from a great one.
WORD-2: Necessitates
Context:
"The idea of craftsmanship is not simply nostalgic. . . . Crafts require distinct skills, an allround approach to work that involves the whole product, rather than individual parts, and an attitude that necessitates devotion to the job and a focus on the communal interest." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Necessitates” means to make something necessary or unavoidable. It is used when certain conditions or outcomes demand a particular action, behavior, or resource. In the given context, it implies that practicing true craftsmanship requires or demands deep devotion and a sense of collective responsibility.
Meaning: To make something necessary or unavoidable (verb)
Pronunciation: nuh-sess-ih-tayts
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin ‘necessitas’ meaning ‘necessity’ or ‘inevitability’, from ‘ne-’ (not) + ‘cessare’ (to stop)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Necessitates” is a strong word that implies obligation. It's more forceful than “requires” and adds a sense of urgency or inevitability to what’s being described. Use it when you want to stress that something absolutely must be done due to circumstances.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: require, demand, call for, compel, entail
Antonyms: eliminate, remove, obviate, dispense with
Usage Examples:
- Completing the project on time necessitates working overtime this week.
- The growing threat of cybercrime necessitates stronger security measures.
- His injury necessitated immediate medical attention.
- Effective leadership often necessitates difficult decisions.
Cultural Reference:
"Desperate times necessitate desperate measures" — A modern twist on the proverb emphasizing urgency in difficult situations.
Think About It:
What situations in your life have necessitated a change in your behavior or routine?
Quick Activity:
Write two sentences: one using “necessitates” in a personal context, and one in a professional context.
Memory Tip:
Think of “necessitates” as a fancy way of saying “makes necessary” — both words start with “necess-”!
Real-World Application:
Understanding “necessitates” helps in academic writing, professional communication, and debates where strong reasoning and cause-effect relationships need to be conveyed clearly.
WORD-3: Preponderant
Context:
"Essentially, the crafts concept seems to run against the preponderant ethos of management studies which, as the academics note, have long prioritised efficiency and consistency. . . . Craft skills were portrayed as being primitive and traditionalist." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word “preponderant” is used to describe something that holds greater influence, power, or importance compared to others. In the context provided, it refers to the dominant or prevailing belief system in management studies — one that emphasizes efficiency and consistency. Anything “preponderant” tends to overshadow or outweigh other perspectives or approaches.
Meaning: Predominant in influence, number, or importance (adjective)
Pronunciation: pre-pon-der-uhnt
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Advanced
Etymology: From Latin *praeponderare* meaning "to outweigh," from *prae-* (before) + *ponderare* (to weigh)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Preponderant” is a high-register academic word that’s useful in argumentative writing. It gives you a way to talk about dominant ideas, forces, or opinions. Use it when you're discussing what holds the most sway or weight in any discussion or field.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: dominant, prevailing, paramount, influential, controlling
Antonyms: minor, secondary, subordinate, inferior
Usage Examples:
- Economic efficiency remains the preponderant concern in most corporate decisions.
- In the debate, her arguments had a preponderant impact on the final judgment.
- The preponderant culture in the workplace discouraged creativity and risk-taking.
- Despite new ideas, the preponderant view still favors traditional teaching methods.
Cultural Reference:
"The preponderant role of Western ideology in global economics has long shaped international development strategies." — A common theme in post-colonial literature and economic critique
Think About It:
Can something be preponderant for a time but eventually be replaced by a new dominant idea or system?
Quick Activity:
Write two sentences: one describing a preponderant belief in your society and another suggesting a contrasting viewpoint.
Memory Tip:
Think “preponderant” = “pre” + “ponderous” = “weighs more” → something that outweighs or dominates others!
Real-World Application:
“Preponderant” is useful in academic essays, business analysis, and policy debates — wherever you need to describe what holds the most power or influence in a given context.
WORD-4: Artisanship
Context:
"The contrast between artisanship and efficiency first came to the fore in the 19th century when British manufacturers suddenly faced competition from across the Atlantic as firms developed the “American system” using standardised..." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Artisanship” refers to the skill and quality demonstrated by someone engaged in a craft or trade, especially when creating things by hand. It embodies dedication, precision, and creativity. In contrast to mass production, artisanship is characterized by unique, often customized work that reflects the personality and expertise of the artisan.
Meaning: The skilled work or craftsmanship of an artisan; the quality of work produced by a craftsperson (noun)
Pronunciation: ar-tuh-zuhn-ship
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From "artisan" (a skilled manual worker) + suffix "-ship" denoting skill or quality
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Artisanship is not just about skill, but about the personal investment in the process of creation. It often conveys a sense of tradition, pride, and aesthetic value. When you talk about artisanship, you're highlighting the uniqueness and quality that comes from the human touch.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: craftsmanship, skill, handiwork, expertise, finesse
Antonyms: mass production, machine work, standardization
Usage Examples:
- The artisanship in the handwoven tapestry was admired by all visitors.
- Artisanship brings a personal touch to items that machines simply cannot replicate.
- The exhibition showcased the fine artisanship of indigenous woodworkers.
- His artisanship has made his ceramic works highly sought after by collectors.
Cultural Reference:
"In Japan, the concept of *shokunin* reflects not just craftsmanship but a deep spiritual connection to artisanship." — Traditional Japanese Philosophy
Think About It:
In a fast-paced world driven by convenience and automation, what is lost — and perhaps gained — when we replace artisanship with efficiency?
Quick Activity:
Identify three objects around you that you believe show signs of true artisanship. Describe what makes them stand out.
Memory Tip:
Connect “artisan” with “artist” — both create with skill and intention. Artisanship = the artistry of everyday objects.
Real-World Application:
Artisanship is increasingly valued in modern markets for its uniqueness and sustainability. From handmade jewelry to custom furniture, it is used to brand products as premium and ethically crafted.
WORD-5: Willing
Context:
"There are two potential markets for those who practise crafts. The first stems from the existence of consumers who are willing to pay a premium price for goods that are deemed to be of extra quality." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Willing” describes a person’s readiness or desire to do something without being forced. It suggests a voluntary, open attitude or a lack of resistance. In the context given, consumers are not only able but also happy or prepared to pay more for quality — their action is a conscious, value-driven choice.
Meaning: Ready, eager, or prepared to do something (adjective)
Pronunciation: wil-ing
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Old English *willung* meaning "desire, choice, or consent"
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Willing” is a very flexible word. It’s used to indicate agreement, intention, or positive attitude. While simple, it carries emotional and motivational weight. Always pair it with the action the subject is ready to take, e.g., “willing to help,” “willing to invest,” etc.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: ready, inclined, eager, prepared, agreeable
Antonyms: unwilling, reluctant, hesitant, resistant
Usage Examples:
- She was willing to stay late to finish the project.
- The client is willing to pay extra for hand-stitched finishes.
- Despite the risks, he was willing to take the chance.
- A team succeeds when every member is willing to contribute equally.
Cultural Reference:
"Where there's a will, there's a way." — A proverb that shows how being willing can lead to success, no matter the obstacles.
Think About It:
What is something you were once unwilling to do but later changed your mind about? What made you willing?
Quick Activity:
Fill in the blank: “I am willing to _________ if it helps me grow.” Reflect and write two such statements.
Memory Tip:
“Willing” contains “will” — remember it as the power or intention to do something by choice.
Real-World Application:
“Willing” is commonly used in job interviews, contracts, and customer negotiations to show openness and agreement. It's a key word for expressing intent and mindset in both personal and professional scenarios.
WORD-6: Monopolies
Context:
"History also suggests that the link between crafts and creativity is not automatic. Medieval craft guilds were monopolies which resisted new entrants." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Monopolies” refer to exclusive control over the supply of a product or service by a single entity or group, often leading to a lack of competition. In the historical context provided, medieval craft guilds acted as monopolies by controlling who could enter and practice the trade, thereby limiting innovation and creativity. Monopolies can lead to inefficiency, higher prices, and suppressed talent when unchecked.
Meaning: The exclusive possession or control of the supply or trade in a service or commodity (noun, plural)
Pronunciation: muh-nop-uh-leez
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *monopolium*, from Greek *monopōlion* — *monos* (alone) + *polein* (to sell)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Monopolies aren't just modern economic phenomena — they existed even in ancient trade systems. In vocabulary, this word often pops up in economics, politics, and historical discussions. Be mindful that it carries a strong negative connotation of exclusion and lack of fairness.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: dominance, control, exclusivity, cartel, hegemony
Antonyms: competition, free market, open access, plurality
Usage Examples:
- Tech giants are often accused of forming monopolies in digital markets.
- The guild’s monopoly over textile production stifled innovation for decades.
- Governments introduce regulations to prevent the rise of monopolies.
- In the medieval era, craft guilds operated as monopolies, limiting who could work in certain trades.
Cultural Reference:
The classic board game *Monopoly* is a playful take on the idea of one player gaining complete control over the market — a simplified metaphor for real-world economic monopolies.
Think About It:
Can monopolies ever be beneficial to society, or do they always harm innovation and fairness?
Quick Activity:
Identify one modern industry where monopolies are suspected to exist. Write a sentence explaining the impact of that monopoly on consumers.
Memory Tip:
“Mono” = one, “poly” = to sell → Monopoly = one seller dominating the market.
Real-World Application:
The term “monopolies” is vital in business and economics to understand market dynamics, antitrust laws, and consumer rights. Recognizing monopolistic behavior is key to promoting fair trade and innovation.
WORD-7: Agile
Context:
"As a current example, the academics cite the “agile” manifesto in the software sector, an industry at the heart of technological change." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Agile” describes the ability to move quickly and easily, both in a physical and metaphorical sense. In the context of software development, it refers to a flexible and iterative approach where teams adapt to changes rapidly and collaborate closely. The Agile Manifesto emphasizes responsiveness, customer collaboration, and continuous improvement — a mindset that has transformed modern tech practices.
Meaning: Able to move quickly and easily; mentally quick and adaptable (adjective)
Pronunciation: aj-uhl
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *agilis*, from *agere* meaning "to do, act, move"
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Agile” is a very relevant word in today's digital and corporate environments. Beyond its literal meaning, it also reflects a mindset — being open to feedback, quick to adapt, and focused on progress rather than perfection. If you’re in tech, business, or education, understanding the “agile approach” is a must.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: nimble, flexible, quick, adaptive, light-footed
Antonyms: clumsy, rigid, slow, inflexible, sluggish
Usage Examples:
- The gymnast was incredibly agile, leaping and twisting with ease.
- Agile teams can adapt to changing client requirements more effectively.
- To stay competitive, companies must become more agile in their operations.
- The cat climbed the tree in one agile movement.
Cultural Reference:
The Agile Manifesto, introduced in 2001, revolutionized software development by promoting collaboration, responsiveness, and iterative design over rigid planning and documentation.
Think About It:
Is being agile more important than being consistent in a rapidly changing world? Why or why not?
Quick Activity:
List two areas in your life where being more agile could help you achieve your goals. What changes would you need to make?
Memory Tip:
Think of an “agile” cat — fast, nimble, responsive. Agile people or systems are just like that — quick and adaptive!
Real-World Application:
“Agile” is a foundational concept in tech startups, project management, and education reform. It reflects a shift from rigid plans to responsive, value-driven action — key in innovation-focused industries.
WORD-8: Communal
Context:
"The idea of craftsmanship is not simply nostalgic. . . . Crafts require distinct skills, an allround approach to work that involves the whole product, rather than individual parts, and an attitude that necessitates devotion to the job and a focus on the communal interest. The concept of craft emphasises the human touch and individual judgment." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Communal” refers to something that is shared among a group or relates to a community. It emphasizes collective benefit, participation, and cooperation. In the context of craftsmanship, a communal interest implies working not just for personal gain but with a commitment to the well-being, values, and culture of a larger group or community.
Meaning: Shared by or for the benefit of all members of a community; relating to a group or society (adjective)
Pronunciation: kuh-myoo-nuhl
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *communis* meaning “common, shared”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Communal” is a word that connects work, effort, or values to the larger group. It appears often in discussions of shared spaces, resources, cultures, and responsibilities. It can carry both positive (shared effort) and negative (conflict between communities) tones, so context is key.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: shared, collective, mutual, joint, public
Antonyms: individual, private, personal, exclusive
Usage Examples:
- The communal kitchen encouraged interaction between neighbors.
- Craftsmanship often arises from a communal spirit, where skills are passed down through generations.
- They organized a communal clean-up of the park every weekend.
- Communal values are essential in building a healthy workplace culture.
Cultural Reference:
“Ubuntu” — a Southern African philosophy meaning “I am because we are” — reflects a deep sense of communal identity and mutual responsibility.
Think About It:
In an age of individualism, how can we rekindle a sense of communal purpose in our daily lives?
Quick Activity:
List three communal activities you’ve participated in. What did they teach you about working with others?
Memory Tip:
Think of “communal” as coming from “community” — if it benefits or belongs to the group, it's communal!
Real-World Application:
“Communal” is frequently used in urban planning, education, corporate ethics, and environmental policies — wherever shared space, resources, or values are at stake.
WORD-9: Medieval
Context:
"History also suggests that the link between crafts and creativity is not automatic. Medieval craft guilds were monopolies which resisted new entrants." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Medieval” refers to the period in European history roughly between the 5th and late 15th centuries — the Middle Ages. It is commonly associated with feudalism, castles, knights, religious authority, and guild systems. In the given context, “medieval craft guilds” refers to organizations that controlled trades during this time, often limiting entry and regulating craftsmanship to maintain standards — or power.
Meaning: Relating to the Middle Ages, the period of European history from about 500 to 1500 CE (adjective)
Pronunciation: meh-dee-ee-vuhl or meh-dee-vuhl
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Modern Latin *medium aevum* meaning "the Middle Age"
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Medieval” often carries historical as well as metaphorical meanings. While it strictly refers to a time period, it's sometimes used to describe outdated or rigid practices. When analyzing ideas or institutions from the past, the term gives historical depth to your writing.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: Middle Age, feudal, ancient (contextual)
Antonyms: modern, contemporary, progressive
Usage Examples:
- The medieval castle was built to withstand both war and time.
- Medieval guilds controlled the quality and pricing of trades.
- Some critics argue that the current policy is medieval in its rigidity.
- He studied medieval literature with a focus on chivalric romance.
Cultural Reference:
The term “medieval” often evokes popular imagery in films like *Braveheart* or *The Name of the Rose*, which depict the societal structures and tensions of that historical era.
Think About It:
What lessons can we learn from medieval institutions like guilds, and how do they compare to modern organizations?
Quick Activity:
Research a medieval profession (like blacksmith or mason). Write two sentences about how that craft was organized or taught during the Middle Ages.
Memory Tip:
Break it down: “medi” = middle, “eval” = age → “Medieval” = Middle Age!
Real-World Application:
Understanding the term “medieval” helps in subjects like history, art, literature, sociology, and political science, where past systems are compared with present structures.
WORD-10: Devotion
Context:
"The idea of craftsmanship is not simply nostalgic. . . . Crafts require distinct skills, an allround approach to work that involves the whole product, rather than individual parts, and an attitude that necessitates devotion to the job and a focus on the communal interest." - Source Unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Devotion” refers to a strong feeling of love, loyalty, or enthusiasm for a person, activity, or cause. In this context, it highlights the deep, unwavering commitment a craftsperson brings to their work — treating it not just as a job, but as a purpose. It implies sincerity, care, and sustained effort over time, often with little concern for external rewards.
Meaning: Deep love, loyalty, or dedication to a person, task, or cause (noun)
Pronunciation: dih-voh-shuhn
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *devotionem*, meaning "dedicated by a vow, solemn act of giving oneself to"
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Devotion” is an emotionally rich word. When someone is devoted, they do not merely perform a task — they invest themselves emotionally and spiritually. In professional or creative work, devotion is what turns labor into art. This is a great word to use when describing sincere effort and emotional commitment.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: dedication, loyalty, commitment, allegiance, faithfulness
Antonyms: indifference, apathy, disinterest, neglect
Usage Examples:
- Her devotion to teaching inspired generations of students.
- The artisan’s devotion to detail made each piece unique.
- Religious devotion often includes daily rituals and practices.
- Devotion to a cause can drive people to make great sacrifices.
Cultural Reference:
Mother Teresa is remembered for her lifelong devotion to the poor and sick — a profound example of selfless service and compassion.
Think About It:
What’s something in your life that you would willingly give your time and energy to without expecting anything in return?
Quick Activity:
Write down three activities or causes that you feel personally devoted to. What motivates this feeling of devotion?
Memory Tip:
Think of “devotion” as “de-vote-ion” — when you devote yourself fully, you practice devotion!
Real-World Application:
“Devotion” is a powerful word for describing strong personal or professional commitments — from religious practices to a doctor’s care for patients or an artist’s passion for their craft.
