4 October 2025 · 7–8 mins read
Introduction
Vocabulary remains one of the most reliable predictors of 11+ exam success — it affects scores in Verbal Reasoning (VR), Comprehension, and even Creative Writing. This October batch A features 10 handpicked advanced words, carefully selected by GLECTA tutors to enhance students’ accuracy, expression, and confidence.
Each word comes with meanings, synonyms, and antonyms, along with practical usage insights and parent-friendly guidance.
GLECTA Vocabulary Builder (October Batch A)
| Word | Meaning | Synonyms | Antonyms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adversary | An opponent or enemy in a contest (advanced) | Rival, foe, antagonist | Ally, supporter |
| Cajole | To persuade someone by flattery or gentle urging (advanced) | Coax, persuade, entice | Dissuade, discourage |
| Eloquent | Fluent and persuasive in speaking or writing (advanced) | Articulate, expressive, well-spoken | Inarticulate, awkward |
| Oblivious | Unaware of what is happening around one (advanced) | Unaware, ignorant, heedless | Aware, mindful |
| Cumbersome | Large or heavy and therefore difficult to carry or handle (medium-advanced) | Unwieldy, awkward, clumsy | Light, manageable |
| Commotion | A state of noisy confusion or disturbance (medium-advanced) | Uproar, turmoil, chaos | Calm, peace |
| Dismal | Causing gloom or misery (medium-advanced) | Gloomy, depressing, bleak | Cheerful, bright |
| Feisty | Lively, determined, and courageous (medium-advanced) | Spirited, bold, energetic | Timid, weak |
| Hindrance | Something that delays or obstructs progress (medium-advanced) | Obstacle, barrier, impediment | Help, assistance |
| Stern | Serious and strict in manner or appearance (medium-advanced) | Harsh, severe, strict | Gentle, lenient |
Did You Know?
Vocabulary in Comprehension
Top 11+ performers don’t just memorise words — they decode meaning from context. For example: > “She gazed at the vast, barren desert.” Even without knowing barren, the surrounding clues (“vast,” “desert”) show it means empty or lifeless.
This contextual skill is key in GL and FSCE comprehension. Encourage your child to infer meanings from clues rather than memorising lists blindly.
NVR Pattern Mastery
In Non-Verbal Reasoning, students often miss multi-layered changes such as rotation + shading combined. Tip: Describe each change aloud — e.g., “The triangle rotates clockwise while the dot moves left.” This verbal reinforcement trains pattern recognition and cuts careless mistakes.
How Parents Can Use This List
- Use flashcards (Quizlet or Anki) for daily 5-minute drills.
- Introduce one new word per day, using it in three different contexts.
- During comprehension practice, ask: “What does this word tell us about the character or setting?”
- Link vocabulary to VR questions involving synonyms and antonyms.
- End each week with a mini spelling and sentence test.
GLECTA Advantage
At GLECTA Tutoring, we combine vocabulary learning with full exam simulation environments.
- Weekly & bi-weekly mock tests (March–June → every two weeks; July onwards → weekly).
- Personalised feedback reports showing vocabulary, comprehension, and timing gaps.
- Dedicated Vocabulary & VR Mastery Workshops to build real-time reasoning fluency.
- Exclusive access to free vocabulary lists and creative writing templates.
FAQs
Why are phrasal verbs and advanced words so important for 11+?
They appear in comprehension and VR papers. A strong vocabulary improves understanding, interpretation, and writing fluency.
How many vocabulary words should my child know by Year 5?
Roughly 700–900 advanced words, including synonyms, antonyms, and idiomatic expressions.
How can parents teach vocabulary effectively?
Through daily context-based exposure, flashcards, and consistent correction during reading and writing.
Are these words tested directly in exams?
Yes — they appear indirectly in VR synonym/antonym questions and English comprehension sections.
When should vocabulary preparation begin?
Ideally from Year 4, but focused preparation in Year 5 yields excellent improvement.
Can vocabulary improve Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR)?
Indirectly, yes — strong language builds logic and pattern explanation skills used in NVR reasoning.
Quick Links (GLECTA)
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