✨ 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:
- Enslave
- Threaten
- Artefacts
- Scriptures
- Deployments
- Indication
- Orimages
- Autocrats
- Mass-Produce
- Exponentially
WORD-1: Enslave
Context:
"Fears of artificial intelligence (AI) have haunted humanity since the very beginning of the computer age. Hitherto these fears focused on machines using physical means to kill, enslave or replace people." - Adapted from an article on AI fears
Explanatory Paragraph:
To "enslave" means to bring someone under complete control, often through force or manipulation. Historically, it referred to physically making someone a slave, depriving them of freedom and autonomy. In modern contexts, it can be used metaphorically, such as being enslaved by technology or addiction, highlighting the loss of independence or control.
Meaning: To make someone a slave or to completely dominate them (Verb)
Pronunciation: en-SLAYV
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Old French *enslavir*, and ultimately from the word “slave,” which has roots in the Latin *sclavus*, originally referring to Slavic people who were enslaved in medieval Europe.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Enslave” is often used metaphorically in modern times—think of people being enslaved by desires, digital addictions, or ideologies. The word conveys an absolute lack of freedom and is powerful when used figuratively.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: subjugate, dominate, oppress, control, imprison
Antonyms: liberate, free, emancipate, release, rescue
Usage Examples:
- The dictator aimed to enslave the population through fear and propaganda.
- She felt enslaved by her routine, unable to break free and pursue her passions.
- The colonists enslaved the native people to work in harsh conditions.
- Technology should empower, not enslave, its users.
Cultural Reference:
"None are more hopelessly enslaved than those who falsely believe they are free." - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Think About It:
Can a person be enslaved without physical chains? How does psychological or digital enslavement manifest in today’s world?
Quick Activity:
Write a short paragraph on whether you think technology has enslaved or liberated society, giving at least one example to support your view.
Memory Tip:
Think of “en-SLAVE” as literally putting someone "in slavery." The word starts with “en-” (to make), and “slave” – to make someone a slave.
Real-World Application:
“Enslave” is often used in discussions about human rights, historical injustices, and even in conversations about modern-day mental health and technology addiction. Understanding this word helps in critically analyzing power dynamics and personal autonomy.
WORD-2: Threaten
Context:
"But over the past couple of years new AI tools have emerged that threaten the survival of human civilisation from an unexpected direction." - Adapted from commentary on emerging AI risks
Explanatory Paragraph:
The verb “threaten” means to pose a danger or to express an intention to cause harm or negative consequences. It can refer to both literal and figurative dangers. In the given context, AI tools “threaten” human civilization not by direct violence, but by introducing risks that could destabilize or disrupt critical aspects of society.
Meaning: To indicate or suggest danger, harm, or negative consequences (Verb)
Pronunciation: THRET-uhn
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Old English *þreatian*, meaning “to urge, oppress,” related to *þreat*, meaning “pressure or coercion.” The modern usage evolved to mean expressing a warning of harm.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Threaten” is a word you’ll frequently see in news and formal analysis, especially when discussing risk—be it to the environment, democracy, or health. It’s a go-to verb to express looming danger or risk, whether direct or indirect.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: endanger, menace, jeopardize, intimidate, warn
Antonyms: protect, safeguard, assure, shelter, comfort
Usage Examples:
- The rising sea levels threaten coastal communities worldwide.
- She threatened to leave the meeting if her demands weren't heard.
- Unchecked pollution threatens biodiversity across the globe.
- The new malware threatens to compromise users' personal data.
Cultural Reference:
"Weapons of mass destruction threaten the peace of the world." - A recurring theme in global security debates and United Nations discussions
Think About It:
Can something or someone pose a threat without intending to? How does perception play a role in what we label as “threatening”?
Quick Activity:
List 3 current global issues that could threaten human well-being. Write one sentence for each explaining how the threat works.
Memory Tip:
“Threaten” contains “threat”—just think of someone holding up a sign saying “THREAT AHEAD!” It’s a warning of danger or harm.
Real-World Application:
“Threaten” is used in a wide range of contexts—environmental science, politics, cybersecurity, and personal safety. Mastering this word helps in analyzing and discussing potential risks in essays, debates, and everyday conversations.
WORD-3: Artefacts
Context:
"Artefacts" - Generic usage indicating items of cultural, historical, or technical significance. Please specify a domain for deeper contextualization.
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Artefacts” are objects made or modified by humans, often holding cultural, historical, or scientific value. These can range from ancient pottery and tools to digital remnants and technical anomalies. The term is widely used in archaeology, history, and even modern technology (e.g., digital artefacts in images or AI outputs).
Meaning: Man-made objects, typically of cultural or historical interest (Noun, plural)
Pronunciation: AR-ti-fakts
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *arte* (“by skill”) + *factum* (“something made”), literally meaning “something made with skill.”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Artefacts aren’t just ancient relics—they can also be unintentional results in scientific or digital processes. Always consider the context: in archaeology, it’s historical; in technology, it could be a glitch or distortion.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: relics, remnants, objects, remains, curios
Antonyms: natural formations, organic growths, phenomena
Usage Examples:
- The museum displayed ancient artefacts discovered in the Indus Valley.
- Digital artefacts appeared in the video due to poor compression.
- Researchers unearthed artefacts that revealed details about early human life.
- Some AI-generated images contain visual artefacts, indicating processing errors.
Cultural Reference:
"The Rosetta Stone is one of the most famous artefacts in human history, key to deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs." - British Museum archives
Think About It:
Can digital data or code ever be considered a cultural artefact of the future? Why or why not?
Quick Activity:
Pick one artefact from your country’s history. Write 2–3 sentences on what it is and why it’s significant.
Memory Tip:
Think of “arte” (art/skill) + “fact” (made) = something crafted by human hands—an artefact!
Real-World Application:
Artefacts are central to museum curation, archaeological research, and increasingly, digital forensics. Understanding this term is key in fields like history, anthropology, and computer science.
WORD-4: Scriptures
Context:
"Think of the next American presidential race in 2024, and try to imagine the impact of AI tools that can be made to mass-produce political content, fake-news stories and scriptures for new cults…" - Adapted from an AI and politics commentary
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Scriptures” typically refer to sacred or religious texts considered authoritative in a faith tradition. These include writings like the Bible, Quran, Vedas, or Torah. In the provided context, the term is used figuratively to describe ideologically driven or dogmatic content that could be generated by AI to support cults or extremist groups—thus equating such writings with a modern kind of pseudo-religious propaganda.
Meaning: Sacred religious writings considered authoritative or divinely inspired (Noun, plural)
Pronunciation: SKRIP-churz
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *scriptura* meaning “writing,” from *scribere*, meaning “to write.” Originally used for any writing, but later became specific to holy texts.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
The use of “scriptures” here is metaphorical—highlighting how AI could create content that is followed blindly, like religious scripture. In critical reading, always watch for such powerful metaphors; they convey not just meaning but a tone of caution or irony.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: holy texts, sacred writings, doctrines, religious books, sacred lore
Antonyms: secular texts, profane writings, fictional stories
Usage Examples:
- The scriptures of major religions often guide the moral and spiritual lives of their followers.
- He spent years studying ancient scriptures to understand their philosophical roots.
- AI-generated “scriptures” could dangerously influence fringe groups.
- Some cults create their own scriptures to control their members.
Cultural Reference:
"All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." – The Bible (2 Timothy 3:16)
Think About It:
What happens when content is given the authority and reverence of scripture, but it’s created by machines? How does that change our perception of truth?
Quick Activity:
List two religious scriptures you’ve heard of. Then, try to write a one-line “AI scripture” that sounds authoritative but is completely fictional. Reflect on how tone creates trust.
Memory Tip:
“Scriptures” comes from “script” – so think of them as “sacred scripts” written and preserved over centuries.
Real-World Application:
Understanding “scriptures” is crucial in religious studies, literature, and sociology. In today’s digital age, the term is increasingly used metaphorically to critique content that’s blindly followed or used to manipulate belief systems—especially relevant in discussions about misinformation and AI.
WORD-5: Deployments
Context:
"AI can make exponentially more powerful AI... Unregulated AI deployments would create social chaos, which would benefit autocrats and ruin democracies." - Adapted from AI ethics and policy commentary
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Deployments” refer to the act of putting something into use or action, particularly in a strategic or planned way. In the context of AI, it implies rolling out or launching AI technologies into real-world systems such as government, healthcare, military, or public platforms. The concern is that uncontrolled or unethical deployments of AI could disrupt societal order, amplify power imbalances, and undermine democratic values.
Meaning: The act of distributing or activating systems, resources, or personnel for practical use (Noun, plural)
Pronunciation: dih-PLOY-muhnts
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From the French *déployer*, meaning “to unfold” or “to spread out,” and later adopted in military contexts. Today, it is widely used in technology and organizational settings.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Deployment” is a versatile noun. In tech, it often refers to launching software or systems. In military contexts, it means stationing troops. When discussing AI, it suggests the powerful moment when abstract models start influencing real people. Watch how this word often signals impact.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: implementation, activation, installation, rollout, utilization
Antonyms: withdrawal, recall, deactivation, suspension
Usage Examples:
- The government’s rapid deployments of surveillance AI raised ethical concerns.
- Tech companies are planning global deployments of generative AI platforms.
- Military deployments in foreign regions often spark political debates.
- Unregulated deployments of technology can lead to unintended consequences.
Cultural Reference:
"The deployment of AI systems should prioritize transparency and accountability to safeguard public trust." – From the European Commission's AI policy draft
Think About It:
Who should have the authority to approve or halt AI deployments? What criteria should determine whether a technology is ready for use?
Quick Activity:
List three sectors (e.g., education, health, military) where AI could be deployed. For each, write one benefit and one potential risk.
Memory Tip:
Think of “deployments” like launching something into action—just like deploying troops or software. “Deploy = Put to use.”
Real-World Application:
“Deployments” is a key term in tech, policy, and operations. It helps describe when a project or tool moves from theory to practice. Understanding this word is vital when discussing implementation strategies, especially in areas like AI, software development, and governance.
WORD-6: Indication
Context:
"Although there is no indication that AI has any consciousness or feelings of its own, to foster fake intimacy with humans it is enough if the AI can make them feel emotionally attached to it…" - Adapted from discussions on emotional AI
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Indication” refers to a sign, signal, or piece of evidence that suggests something may be true. It does not confirm the fact but points toward its possibility. In the given context, it means there is no sign or evidence suggesting that AI possesses consciousness or feelings—yet its ability to simulate emotions can still create an illusion of intimacy with humans.
Meaning: A sign, piece of evidence, or symptom that shows something might be true or happening (Noun)
Pronunciation: in-di-KAY-shun
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *indicare*, meaning “to point out” or “to indicate.” Derived from *in-* (“toward”) and *dicare* (“to proclaim”).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Indication” is a key word in both scientific and everyday reasoning. It suggests probability, not certainty. In essays and critical analysis, it’s a safer alternative to making bold claims—it shows there might be evidence without asserting a full conclusion.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: sign, signal, evidence, hint, suggestion
Antonyms: denial, contradiction, disproof, refutation
Usage Examples:
- There is no clear indication that the policy will be reversed.
- Rising temperatures are an indication of global climate change.
- The AI gave no indication of understanding the user's emotions, yet its responses were emotionally resonant.
- Yawning is often an indication of tiredness or boredom.
Cultural Reference:
In medical science, the term “indication” is used to describe the reason for using a particular treatment. For example: “This drug has multiple indications, including anxiety and depression.”
Think About It:
If something gives the *indication* of being intelligent or alive—does it matter whether it truly is? How does perception influence our relationships with technology?
Quick Activity:
Write down three things you’ve seen today that served as indications of something (e.g., clouds indicating rain). Explain what each one might suggest.
Memory Tip:
“Indication” comes from “indicate”—to point out. So think of it as a “pointing sign” that shows you something might be happening or true.
Real-World Application:
“Indication” is used in medicine, technology, psychology, and everyday language to describe evidence of potential truths. It’s especially useful when analyzing incomplete data or forming cautious conclusions, such as in research, diagnostics, and AI ethics.
WORD-7: Images
Context:
"...whether with words, sounds or images. AI has thereby hacked the operating system of our civilisation." - Adapted from analysis of AI’s impact on human communication
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Images” are visual representations of objects, people, ideas, or scenes. They can be photographs, drawings, graphics, or digital creations. In the context of AI, “images” often refer to synthetic visuals generated by algorithms to influence, inform, or manipulate perception. Their power lies in their ability to convey complex ideas or emotions instantly, making them a key tool in shaping narratives and beliefs.
Meaning: Visual representations such as pictures, graphics, or mental impressions (Noun, plural)
Pronunciation: IH-mij-iz
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Basic
Etymology: From Latin *imago*, meaning “likeness” or “representation.” Originally linked to carved or painted likenesses of people or gods.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
In modern digital and AI contexts, “images” don’t just show—they persuade, mislead, or evoke strong reactions. Be alert to how visuals are used, especially when AI is the creator. An image can be more than decoration—it can be psychological strategy.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: pictures, visuals, illustrations, representations, graphics
Antonyms: sounds, texts, concepts (in certain media contexts)
Usage Examples:
- The article was filled with powerful images that captured the crisis vividly.
- AI-generated images are now indistinguishable from real photographs.
- She had disturbing images in her mind after watching the documentary.
- Images can evoke emotions faster than words ever could.
Cultural Reference:
“A picture is worth a thousand words.” — Popular proverb emphasizing the power of visual communication.
Think About It:
How do you verify whether an image is real or AI-generated? What responsibility do creators and platforms have in labeling such images?
Quick Activity:
Find an AI-generated image online. Try to write a short description of what message or emotion it might be trying to convey. Then, compare it with a real photo of a similar scene.
Memory Tip:
“Images” come from the word “imagine”—think of them as the visual result of someone’s imagination or technology’s simulation.
Real-World Application:
Images play a crucial role in advertising, journalism, education, and now AI. Understanding their use and manipulation is essential for media literacy, especially in an age of deepfakes and visual misinformation.
WORD-8: Autocrats
Context:
"...which would benefit autocrats and ruin democracies. Democracy is a conversation, and conversations rely on language." - From a discussion on AI's impact on political systems
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Autocrats” are rulers who hold absolute power over a state or organization, typically without being subject to democratic constraints or public accountability. In the context of the sentence, the word implies that unchecked AI deployments could destabilize democratic systems and strengthen the control of autocrats by enabling manipulation, surveillance, and censorship on a mass scale.
Meaning: Rulers who possess and exercise absolute power, often in an oppressive or authoritarian manner (Noun, plural)
Pronunciation: AW-toh-krats
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Greek *autokratēs*, meaning “ruling by oneself,” derived from *autos* (“self”) and *kratos* (“power”).
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Autocrat” is a politically charged term that conveys a concentration of power. It’s the opposite of democracy. In modern contexts, look beyond dictators—it can also describe CEOs, influencers, or AI systems acting without checks or balances.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: dictators, tyrants, despots, strongmen, monarchs
Antonyms: democrats, republicans, egalitarians, constitutional leaders
Usage Examples:
- The autocrats used censorship and surveillance to suppress dissent.
- Autocrats thrive in environments where the flow of information can be manipulated.
- The revolution overthrew the autocrats and established a parliamentary system.
- AI systems may unintentionally empower autocrats by enhancing their control tools.
Cultural Reference:
Historical figures like Joseph Stalin, Adolf Hitler, and Kim Jong-un are often cited as autocrats—leaders with unchecked power who ruled through fear, propaganda, and force.
Think About It:
Can technology like AI become a tool of autocracy even if it's built in democratic societies? How can democratic checks be designed into emerging technologies?
Quick Activity:
Research a modern-day country where power is concentrated in one individual. Write 2–3 sentences about how that leader fits the definition of an autocrat.
Memory Tip:
“Auto” means self and “crat” means ruler—so an “autocrat” is someone who rules by themselves, without input or limits from others.
Real-World Application:
Understanding “autocrats” is essential in political science, history, and civic studies. It’s also increasingly important in conversations about digital power—where corporations or AI systems may act autocratically in the absence of regulation.
WORD-9: Mass-Produce
Context:
"Think of the next American presidential race in 2024, and try to imagine the impact of AI tools that can be made to mass-produce political content, fake-news stories and scriptures for new cults…" - From a reflection on AI's influence on democracy
Explanatory Paragraph:
To “mass-produce” something means to manufacture or create large quantities of it quickly, usually using automation or a streamlined process. In the context of AI, it refers to the ability of technology to rapidly generate vast amounts of persuasive content—like political ads, fake news, or even manipulative ideological texts—at a scale that can overwhelm traditional communication channels or ethical safeguards.
Meaning: To produce in large quantities, especially by automated or industrial processes (Verb)
Pronunciation: mass-pruh-DOOS / mass-pruh-DYOOS
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Basic
Etymology: From “mass” (large amount) + “produce” (to make). Became widely used with the advent of factory manufacturing in the 20th century.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This word is no longer just for factories. “Mass-produce” has shifted meaning in the AI era—it now includes digital content, emotions, and even beliefs. Watch how its use evolves from industrial to psychological and informational domains.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: manufacture, fabricate, churn out, generate, replicate
Antonyms: craft, tailor, customize, hand-make, limit
Usage Examples:
- AI can mass-produce deepfake videos that are hard to distinguish from real footage.
- The company used robots to mass-produce smartphones more efficiently.
- Propaganda was mass-produced during the war to influence public opinion.
- With generative models, AI systems can now mass-produce poems, articles, and art pieces.
Cultural Reference:
Henry Ford revolutionized the automobile industry by introducing the assembly line, allowing cars to be mass-produced and made affordable for the average person.
Think About It:
When ideas, emotions, or even political ideologies can be mass-produced by machines, how do we preserve authenticity and critical thinking?
Quick Activity:
Pick any three things that can be mass-produced in today’s world. For each, write whether its mass-production is more beneficial or harmful, and why.
Memory Tip:
Think: “Mass = a lot” and “produce = to make.” So, to mass-produce is to “make a lot”—whether it’s objects, articles, or AI outputs.
Real-World Application:
Mass-production isn't limited to factories anymore. In the digital age, it refers to content creation, misinformation, and automation at scale. It’s a crucial concept for understanding modern media, marketing, and the ethics of artificial intelligence.
WORD-10: Exponentially
Context:
"AI can make exponentially more powerful AI... Unregulated AI deployments would create social chaos, which would benefit autocrats and ruin democracies." - From a commentary on the rapid growth of AI
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Exponentially” is an adverb that describes growth or increase happening at an extremely rapid rate, often doubling repeatedly rather than increasing by fixed amounts. In the context of AI, it signifies that each generation of AI could make the next one far more advanced—leading to a compounding effect that’s difficult to predict or control.
Meaning: At an extremely rapid and accelerating rate (Adverb)
Pronunciation: ek-spoh-NEN-shuh-lee
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From the mathematical term “exponent,” which refers to the power to which a number is raised. The usage evolved to describe anything growing or increasing in a compounding or accelerating manner.
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Exponentially” is a power-packed word often used in science, economics, and tech. It’s more than just “very fast”—it means *increasing at an increasing rate*. Be precise when using it—reserve it for growth that accelerates, not just speeds up.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: rapidly, explosively, swiftly, at a geometric rate
Antonyms: gradually, slowly, incrementally, steadily
Usage Examples:
- The company’s profits have grown exponentially since introducing AI tools.
- Data is being generated exponentially in the digital age.
- AI systems now have the ability to improve exponentially by training on their own outputs.
- Misinformation spreads exponentially on social media platforms.
Cultural Reference:
“We are on the cusp of exponential technological change.” – Ray Kurzweil, futurist and AI advocate, referring to the law of accelerating returns.
Think About It:
Can democratic institutions—designed for slow deliberation—keep up with exponentially evolving technologies like AI?
Quick Activity:
Think of something in your life that has changed exponentially (e.g., screen time, data usage). Write a brief paragraph explaining how the rate of change grew rapidly over time.
Memory Tip:
“Exponentially” = “exploding numbers.” Think of it like multiplying, not adding. If 1 becomes 2, then 4, then 8... that’s exponential growth!
Real-World Application:
This term is essential in discussing trends in technology, science, and population growth. In AI discourse, it helps articulate how small innovations can quickly lead to massive, society-shaping outcomes.
