✨ 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:
- Elite
- Sterilizing
- Firestorm
- Bleak
- Astronauts
- Microbelurking
- Flooded
- Speculative
- Contamination
- Settlement
WORD-1: Elite
Context:
"There is a group in the space community who view the solar system not as an opportunity to expand human potential but as a nature preserve, forever the provenance of an elite group of scientists and their sanitary robotic probes." - Source unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word “elite” refers to a select group of people who are considered the best in a particular society or category, often due to their skills, status, wealth, or education. In this context, it implies exclusivity — a group that holds privilege or power that is not accessible to the general public. Here, the term is used to critique the idea that space exploration is limited to a small, powerful scientific community rather than being inclusive and expansive.
Meaning: A select group that is superior in terms of ability, wealth, or status (Noun/Adjective)
Pronunciation: ih-LEET
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Beginner
Etymology: From Middle French *élite*, from Old French *eslit* (chosen), past participle of *eslire* (to choose), from Latin *eligere*
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Think of “elite” as the top slice — whether in society, sports, academics, or politics. It often carries a positive sense of excellence, but can also imply exclusion or arrogance, especially when used critically.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: exclusive, privileged, upper-class, select, superior
Antonyms: common, ordinary, average, mediocre, egalitarian
Usage Examples:
- She was admitted into an elite university known for its rigorous standards.
- The elite soldiers were deployed for the high-risk rescue mission.
- There is criticism that the art world is controlled by an elite few.
- The club was so elite that only a handful of people had ever been invited to join.
Cultural Reference:
"The ruling elite seems to be completely disconnected from the everyday struggles of ordinary citizens." – A common critique found in political commentary and documentaries.
Think About It:
Can the existence of an elite ever be justified in a democratic society, or does it inherently lead to inequality?
Quick Activity:
List three domains (e.g., sports, education, politics) and identify a group or person considered elite in each. What qualities make them elite?
Memory Tip:
Think of the word “elite” as the “E-lite” — the lightest, most elevated group in the room.
Real-World Application:
The term “elite” is widely used in media and policy discussions to critique social disparity, as in “elite universities,” “elite athletes,” or “political elite.” Understanding its connotations helps decode bias and tone in arguments.
WORD-2: Sterilizing
Context:
"Under this regime, NASA incurs great expense sterilizing robotic probes in order to prevent the contamination of entirely theoretical biospheres." - Source unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Sterilizing” refers to the process of making something completely free from bacteria or other living microorganisms. In the context of space exploration, it is a critical step taken to ensure that probes sent to other planets do not carry Earth-based microbes that could potentially contaminate alien environments. This process, although costly, is seen as essential for protecting hypothetical extraterrestrial ecosystems and preserving scientific integrity in astrobiology research.
Meaning: To make something completely free from bacteria or other living microorganisms (Verb - Present Participle)
Pronunciation: STAIR-uh-lye-zing
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From French *stériliser*, from Latin *sterilis* (barren) + *-ize* (forming verbs)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Think of “sterilizing” not just in hospitals, but also in broader scientific contexts. It’s about ensuring zero contamination — a concept with both biological and metaphorical implications (e.g., sterilizing ideas or environments).
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: disinfecting, decontaminating, sanitizing, purifying
Antonyms: contaminating, infecting, polluting, tainting
Usage Examples:
- The hospital staff spent hours sterilizing surgical equipment before the operation.
- NASA is sterilizing its spacecraft to avoid altering potential Martian ecosystems.
- They recommended sterilizing baby bottles with boiling water.
- Some regimes have misused the concept of sterilizing to justify unethical social practices in history.
Cultural Reference:
"In the sci-fi classic *The Andromeda Strain*, scientists work inside a highly sterilized lab to contain a deadly extraterrestrial microorganism." – Film and novel reference by Michael Crichton
Think About It:
Is sterilization always a protective measure, or can it also represent control and overreach in certain contexts?
Quick Activity:
List three situations where sterilizing is absolutely necessary and three where it might be seen as excessive or unnecessary.
Memory Tip:
Think of “sterilizing” as making something as *still* as possible—no life, no germs, no contamination. “S” for “Still” and “Sterile.”
Real-World Application:
In medicine, food production, and space science, sterilizing is a vital step to prevent infection, spoilage, or contamination. It ensures safety in surgery, preserves the purity of food products, and protects other worlds from Earth-based microbes.
WORD-3: Firestorm
Context:
"When it was recently revealed that a researcher had surreptitiously smuggled super-resilient microscopic tardigrades aboard the ill-fated Israeli Beresheet lunar probe, a firestorm was unleashed within the space community." - Source unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
Originally used to describe a literal storm of fire caused by intense heat and wind during large-scale fires or bombings, the term “firestorm” has evolved metaphorically. Now, it is often used to describe an intense and sudden outburst of controversy, outrage, or public reaction. In this context, it refers to the explosive backlash and heated debate triggered within the space community when the unauthorized action involving tardigrades came to light.
Meaning: A sudden and intense outburst of controversy, emotion, or conflict (Noun)
Pronunciation: FY-er-storm
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: First used in World War II to describe devastating fire-based weather events caused by bombing raids; later adopted metaphorically
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Metaphors matter! “Firestorm” is a perfect example of a word that retains its destructive energy even in figurative use. Whenever you see it, expect chaos, backlash, or extreme emotional reaction.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: uproar, outcry, backlash, controversy, explosion
Antonyms: calm, peace, acceptance, harmony, consensus
Usage Examples:
- The politician's remarks sparked a firestorm of criticism on social media.
- A firestorm erupted after the company announced layoffs without warning.
- The book created a firestorm in literary circles due to its bold themes.
- His decision to bypass safety protocols led to a firestorm of backlash from the scientific community.
Cultural Reference:
“The Vietnam War generated a firestorm of protests across American universities.” – Referenced in multiple historical documentaries and political analyses.
Think About It:
In an age of instant communication, do public firestorms help ensure accountability, or do they suppress thoughtful discussion and due process?
Quick Activity:
Write a brief paragraph about a recent event (real or fictional) that caused a public firestorm. Identify what triggered the reaction and how people responded.
Memory Tip:
Visualize a storm made of fire—uncontrollable, fierce, and destructive. That’s the intensity a “firestorm” brings to emotional or social situations.
Real-World Application:
“Firestorm” is frequently used in journalism and media headlines to describe public controversies, scandals, or reactions to major events. Recognizing its tone helps readers interpret the urgency and magnitude of the story.
WORD-4: Bleak
Context:
"Nobody wants to expose Martians to measles, but sadly, robotic exploration reveals a bleak, rusted landscape, lacking oxygen and flooded with radiation ready to sterilize any Earthly microbes." - Source unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word “bleak” is often used to describe something that is cold, empty, or lacking in hope. It can refer to both physical environments and emotional states. In this context, “bleak” characterizes the Martian surface as desolate, harsh, and inhospitable — a place devoid of life and cheer. It emphasizes the grim reality of space environments compared to the romantic notions of extraterrestrial exploration.
Meaning: Cold, barren, and hopeless; lacking in warmth, life, or encouragement (Adjective)
Pronunciation: bleek
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Old Norse *bleikr* meaning “pale, white,” associated with cold and exposure
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Bleak” paints a mental image — think gray skies, lifeless fields, or grim outcomes. It’s a powerful word to convey emotional or environmental emptiness. Excellent for descriptive writing.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: desolate, barren, grim, hopeless, dreary
Antonyms: cheerful, hopeful, pleasant, promising, lush
Usage Examples:
- The landscape was bleak, with nothing but rocky ground and gray skies.
- After the company shut down, her prospects seemed bleak.
- The film portrays a bleak future where society has collapsed.
- Winter in the Arctic can be both visually stunning and emotionally bleak.
Cultural Reference:
"It was a dark and bleak December..." — From Edgar Allan Poe’s poem *The Raven*, capturing a cold and hopeless mood.
Think About It:
Can a bleak situation sometimes lead to personal growth or hidden opportunity? How might this apply to space exploration?
Quick Activity:
Think of a place you’ve visited that felt bleak to you. Write three adjectives to describe it and one sentence about how it made you feel.
Memory Tip:
“Bleak” sounds like “bleach” — imagine color and life being drained from a scene, leaving it pale, empty, and lifeless.
Real-World Application:
“Bleak” is often used in journalism, literature, and climate reporting to highlight dire or hopeless conditions. Mastering this word enhances your ability to describe somber moods or settings effectively.
WORD-5: Astronauts
Context:
"NASA’s human exploration budget and encroach on the agency’s other directorates, too. Getting future astronauts off Mars is enough of a challenge, without trying to tote weeks of waste along as well." - Source unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Astronauts” are trained professionals who travel into space to conduct missions that may include scientific experiments, spacewalks, system maintenance, and exploration. The term is most commonly associated with NASA, though many countries now have space programs with their own astronauts. In the given context, the word refers to future human travelers to Mars, highlighting the immense logistical and technical challenges involved in safely returning them to Earth.
Meaning: A person trained for space travel and operations beyond Earth's atmosphere (Noun)
Pronunciation: ASS-truh-nawts
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Beginner
Etymology: From Greek *astron* (star) + *nautes* (sailor); literally “star sailor”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Astronaut” is one of those inspiring words tied to human achievement and curiosity. It symbolizes our quest to reach beyond Earth — a blend of science, bravery, and imagination. Also, note similar terms like “cosmonaut” (Russian) and “taikonaut” (Chinese).
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: space traveler, cosmonaut, space explorer, taikonaut
Antonyms: Earthbound person, layperson (in space context), civilian
Usage Examples:
- The astronauts conducted several experiments aboard the International Space Station.
- Astronauts must train for years to prepare for the physical and mental challenges of space travel.
- The first astronauts to walk on the Moon became global icons.
- Future astronauts may be selected to explore Mars within the next few decades.
Cultural Reference:
"That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind." – Neil Armstrong, the first astronaut to walk on the Moon, July 20, 1969
Think About It:
What kind of personality traits and skills should future astronauts possess for long-duration missions to Mars or beyond?
Quick Activity:
List three reasons why astronauts are important for scientific discovery. Then, write a sentence imagining yourself as one.
Memory Tip:
Break it into “astro” (stars) + “nauts” (sailors). Astronauts are “sailors of the stars.”
Real-World Application:
The word “astronaut” is increasingly relevant in discussions about space tourism, planetary colonization, and STEM careers. Understanding the term helps engage with global advancements in space science and technology.
WORD-6: Microbelurking
Context:
"Choose to propel our biosphere further into the solar system, simultaneously protecting our home planet and providing a backup plan for the only life we know exists in the universe. Are the lives on Earth worth less than some hypothetical microbelurking under Martian rocks?" - Source unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Microbelurking” is a coined or compound term combining “microbe” and “lurking,” used here to describe the idea of unseen or hidden microscopic lifeforms possibly residing beneath the surface of Mars. The word blends scientific curiosity with dramatic imagery, suggesting that these organisms may be secretive or hard to detect, perhaps even surviving in harsh environments. It captures both the speculative nature and the cautious approach often taken in space exploration regarding contamination and the search for extraterrestrial life.
Meaning: A hypothetical or imagined microbe hiding or existing undetected, especially in alien environments (Invented Compound – Noun)
Pronunciation: MY-krohb-lur-king
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐⭐ Advanced (creative or journalistic usage)
Etymology: Blend of “microbe” (tiny organism) and “lurking” (hiding in the shadows or unseen)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
This is a fantastic example of how language evolves creatively to express complex ideas vividly. “Microbelurking” evokes both science and suspense. It’s not a standard dictionary word but one worth appreciating in context. Encourage students to coin their own meaningful compound words!
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: hidden microbe, undetected organism, stealthy lifeform
Antonyms: observable organism, visible lifeform, known microbe
Usage Examples:
- Scientists debate the ethical implications of disturbing any microbelurking beneath the Martian crust.
- Is the fear of microbelurking life stopping us from expanding human presence in space?
- The concept of microbelurking is central to astrobiological theories about life on other planets.
- Some researchers argue that no evidence of microbelurking has yet been found, only speculation.
Cultural Reference:
“Microbelurking” reflects a trend in modern science writing where creative compounds are used to spark interest in complex debates — similar to terms like “doomscrolling” or “techlash.”
Think About It:
If we did find microbelurking organisms on Mars, should we protect them — even if it meant halting human colonization plans?
Quick Activity:
Invent your own compound science word (e.g., "dustwhisperer" for someone who studies cosmic dust) and define it. Be creative!
Memory Tip:
Visualize tiny microbes playing hide-and-seek beneath Martian rocks — that’s “microbelurking.” The word lurks just like its meaning!
Real-World Application:
Though not standard, “microbelurking” encapsulates real scientific concerns about planetary protection and extraterrestrial contamination. It illustrates how language shapes public understanding of space ethics.
WORD-7: Flooded
Context:
"...flooded with radiation ready to sterilize any Earthly microbes." - Source unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word “flooded” is commonly used both literally and metaphorically. Literally, it means being covered or submerged in water or another liquid. Figuratively, it can mean being overwhelmed or filled with something in large quantity. In the given context, “flooded with radiation” describes the overwhelming and pervasive presence of radiation on the Martian surface — a hazardous environment that could eradicate any biological life brought from Earth. This figurative use emphasizes intensity and danger.
Meaning: Filled or overwhelmed with a large quantity of something, often in a sudden or excessive way (Verb – Past tense of “flood”)
Pronunciation: FLUH-did
Difficulty Level: ⭐ Beginner
Etymology: From Old English *flod*, related to *flowan* (to flow); influenced by Latin *fluctus* (a flowing or wave)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Flooded” is a dynamic and versatile word. It can evoke strong imagery — whether you’re describing an actual deluge or an inbox full of emails. Note its emotional and physical dimensions.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: inundated, overwhelmed, deluged, submerged, saturated
Antonyms: drained, emptied, dried, cleared
Usage Examples:
- The basement was flooded after the heavy rains.
- Her inbox was flooded with congratulatory messages.
- The media was flooded with coverage of the historic landing.
- The Martian surface is flooded with cosmic radiation, posing risks to astronauts and equipment.
Cultural Reference:
“When it rains, it pours.” – An idiom often connected with situations being flooded with problems or emotions all at once, popular in advertisements and everyday speech.
Think About It:
Can being “flooded” with something ever be a good thing? What does it depend on — the context, the content, or the person’s mindset?
Quick Activity:
Write three short sentences using “flooded” in different ways: one literal, one emotional, and one scientific or technical.
Memory Tip:
Picture water pouring into a room through a broken pipe. That overwhelming, unstoppable flow — that’s what “flooded” feels like in any form.
Real-World Application:
“Flooded” is widely used in news reports, weather forecasts, and even digital life (e.g., “flooded with notifications”). Understanding its nuances improves both comprehension and expression in everyday language.
WORD-8: Speculative
Context:
"The upsides from human exploration and development of Mars clearly outweigh the welfare of purely speculative Martian fungi." - Source unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Speculative” refers to something that is based on guesswork, theory, or conjecture rather than solid evidence. It often suggests uncertainty or a lack of proof. In the given context, the term “speculative Martian fungi” implies that the existence of such life forms is entirely hypothetical — there’s no concrete evidence that these fungi exist. The word helps emphasize the contrast between what is imagined and what is real or actionable in decision-making.
Meaning: Based on conjecture or incomplete information; involving a high degree of uncertainty (Adjective)
Pronunciation: SPEK-yuh-luh-tiv
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *speculatus* (observed), from *speculari* (to observe, watch)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
“Speculative” is a key word in critical thinking and scientific writing. It’s often used to signal that a claim is not yet proven. Keep an eye out for it in finance, fiction, and philosophy too — it’s everywhere ideas are tested but not yet confirmed.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: hypothetical, theoretical, conjectural, unproven, uncertain
Antonyms: factual, proven, certain, validated, established
Usage Examples:
- The idea of alien life on Mars remains speculative without scientific proof.
- Investing in cryptocurrencies is often considered a speculative venture.
- The novel explores speculative technologies of a distant future.
- He made a speculative remark about the company’s next move.
Cultural Reference:
“Speculative fiction” is a genre that includes science fiction, fantasy, and other imaginative narratives that explore “what if” scenarios — from H.G. Wells to Margaret Atwood.
Think About It:
How should society weigh the risks and ethics of acting on speculative ideas — especially in science and exploration?
Quick Activity:
Write two speculative “what if” questions related to space or technology. Example: What if humans could grow food on Mars?
Memory Tip:
“Speculative” sounds like “spectacles” — imagine someone squinting into the distance, trying to see something that’s not clear. That’s what speculation is — trying to see what’s uncertain.
Real-World Application:
“Speculative” is a frequent term in scientific debates, financial markets, and even policymaking — helping distinguish ideas that are supported by data from those that are still in the realm of imagination.
WORD-9: Contamination
Context:
"...to prevent the contamination of entirely theoretical biospheres." - Source unknown
Explanatory Paragraph:
“Contamination” refers to the presence of an unwanted substance or organism that makes a place, material, or system impure, unsafe, or unfit for use. In scientific contexts — especially in space exploration — it can mean the unintentional transfer of Earth-based microbes to alien environments. Such contamination could interfere with scientific experiments, lead to false results, or even endanger potential extraterrestrial ecosystems. The word highlights the importance of maintaining purity and caution in sensitive systems.
Meaning: The presence or introduction of something harmful or unwanted that makes a material or environment impure or unsafe (Noun)
Pronunciation: kuhn-tam-uh-NAY-shun
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Latin *contaminare* meaning "to pollute, defile," from *com-* (together) + *tangere* (to touch)
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Contamination isn’t just about dirt or germs — it’s about crossing boundaries. Whether physical (like microbes on Mars) or metaphorical (like corrupting data or ideas), it’s about what shouldn’t be there interfering with what should be.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: pollution, infection, taint, impurity, defilement
Antonyms: purification, cleanliness, sterilization, decontamination
Usage Examples:
- Strict measures are taken to avoid contamination during surgical procedures.
- The water supply was shut down due to chemical contamination.
- Planetary protection protocols aim to prevent the contamination of extraterrestrial environments.
- Even a small amount of contamination can ruin a scientific experiment.
Cultural Reference:
In the film *The Martian*, contamination is a key concern — both for preserving life support systems and for ensuring scientific integrity in the search for alien life.
Think About It:
Should the risk of contaminating another planet prevent humans from exploring it? Where do we draw the ethical line?
Quick Activity:
List three different types of contamination: one biological, one chemical, and one metaphorical. Describe each in one sentence.
Memory Tip:
Think of “con” (together) + “taminate” (touch) — contamination happens when something unwanted comes into contact with what should be clean or pure.
Real-World Application:
Understanding “contamination” is crucial in fields like medicine, food safety, environmental science, and space exploration — wherever purity and control matter for outcomes and safety.
WORD-10: Settlement
Context:
"...human settlement on Mars..." (inferred from context related to space exploration and colonization)
Explanatory Paragraph:
The word “settlement” typically refers to the act of establishing a community in a new place. Historically used for colonies or towns, it now frequently appears in discussions of future space exploration. In the context of Mars or the Moon, a “settlement” implies building a permanent or semi-permanent human presence, including habitats, life-support systems, and infrastructure necessary for sustained living in extraterrestrial environments.
Meaning: A place where people establish a community, often in a previously uninhabited or new location (Noun)
Pronunciation: SET-l-muhnt
Difficulty Level: ⭐⭐ Intermediate
Etymology: From Old French *settlement* or directly from English *settle* + *-ment*, meaning “act of settling”
Prashant Sir's Notes:
Think beyond geography — “settlement” is now a term deeply tied to our space future. It symbolizes not just location, but survival, adaptation, and the human desire to inhabit and shape new frontiers.
Synonyms & Antonyms:
Synonyms: colony, habitation, outpost, community, establishment
Antonyms: abandonment, evacuation, desertion, displacement
Usage Examples:
- The first human settlement on Mars will require advanced life-support systems and energy sources.
- Early settlements in harsh environments often face logistical and ethical challenges.
- The lunar settlement will serve as a base for deeper space exploration.
- Debates continue about whether settlements on other planets should be controlled by nations or international bodies.
Cultural Reference:
In the series *The Expanse*, Martian settlements are portrayed as technologically advanced yet socially distinct from Earth, raising questions about identity, governance, and autonomy in space.
Think About It:
Should humans create permanent settlements on other planets if it risks harming potential native ecosystems or species?
Quick Activity:
Design a basic plan for a Mars settlement: What three essentials would you prioritize and why?
Memory Tip:
Think of “settling down” — whether on Earth or Mars, a settlement is about making a place livable and sustainable.
Real-World Application:
Understanding “settlement” is vital in space policy, environmental planning, and future technology — it’s a word that bridges survival, society, and strategy for life beyond Earth.
