Here are some important English vocabulary categories for the CAT exam: * Synonyms and Antonyms: Understanding the nuances of word meaning is crucial. * Idioms and Phrases: These are common expressions that have figurative meanings. * One-Word Substitutions: Knowing single words that convey complex ideas can be helpful. * Phrasal Verbs: These are combinations of verbs and prepositions that have unique meanings. * Word Roots and Affixes: Understanding these can help you decipher the meaning of unfamiliar words. * Commonly Confused Words: Words that sound similar but have different meanings (e.g., "affect" vs. "effect"). * Figurative Language: Metaphors, similes, and other literary devices used in the exam. Remember, the CAT exam focuses on vocabulary that is commonly used in academic and professional contexts. read less

If you're preparing for theCAT (Common Admission Test), having a strong vocabulary is essential for theVerbal Ability & Reading Comprehension (VARC)section. Below is a categorized list of importantEnglish vocabulary wordsthat frequently appear in CAT exams: 1. High-Frequency Words Aberration– Deviation from the norm Acrimonious– Bitter in words or manner Belligerent– Hostile, aggressive Cacophony– Harsh, jarring sound Capricious– Unpredictable, impulsive Debilitate– Weaken Enigma– Mystery Evanescent– Fleeting, short-lived Fortuitous– Happening by chance, lucky Juxtaposition– Placing two things side by side for comparison 2. Words Related to Tone & Attitude (For RC & Para Jumbles) Euphemistic– Using mild words to replace harsh ones Didactic– Intended to teach Derisive– Mocking, contemptuous Sanguine– Optimistic Laconic– Using very few words Pernicious– Harmful in a subtle way Supercilious– Arrogant, looking down on others 3. Commonly Confused Words Affect (verb)vs.Effect (noun)– Influence vs. Result Elicit (verb)vs.Illicit (adj.)– Draw out vs. Illegal Compliment (noun/verb)vs.Complement (noun/verb)– Praise vs. Complete/match Disinterested (adj.)vs.Uninterested (adj.)– Impartial vs. Not interested Flout (verb)vs.Flaunt (verb)– Disregard rules vs. Show off How to Improve Vocabulary for CAT? Read daily– The Hindu, The Economist, The Guardian, NY Times Use Flashcards– Apps like Anki, Quizlet Practice Word Roots– E.g.,bene-(good) → Benevolent, Beneficiary Solve CAT RC & Vocabulary Questions Revise & Apply Words in Writing & Speaking read less