Best Vocabulary Books for MBA Entrance Exam 2025 - When we talk about essential words for the MBA entrance exam, we have to keep in mind that the purpose, which is to conquer the examination, requires more than just a command of grammar rules, and looks for correct and important vocabulary that can articulate ideas with assertion. In all these tests, a rich and varied lexicon is your key to unlocking higher scores in the verbal ability section. This article serves as your guide to the essential top 10 vocabulary books for the MBA entrance exam, exploring the real-time requirement of academic language, synonyms, idiomatic expressions, and many more. Best vocabulary books for MBA entrance exams can be a big help.
Once released, the CAT 2025 result link will be available on the IIM CAT candidate login page. The scorecard will display section-wise scaled scores, overall score, and percentile. Candidates are advised to download and save a copy of the scorecard for admission and counselling purposes.
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How to Choose the Best Vocabulary Book for MBA Preparation
Top 10 Expert-Recommended Vocabulary Books for MBA
Exam-Specific MBA Preparation Books
How to Use Vocabulary Books for MBA Preparation?
Common Mistakes While Building Vocabulary for MBA Exams
MBA Entrance Exam Vocabulary Preparation: Key Takeaways
Important Vocabulary Materials Designed by Careers360
Top 10 Vocabulary Books for MBA Entrance Exam Preparation [CAT, XAT, GMAT, SNAP]
Role of Vocabulary in Verbal Ability Sections
Vocabulary plays a crucial role in preparing for entrance exams, as it is commonly tested across various assessments. The number of vocabulary-related questions can range from 3 to 8, depending on the specific test. The Vocabulary section is significant for two key reasons:
It enables you to answer direct vocabulary questions, such as those involving synonyms, antonyms, and one-word substitutions.
It enhances your ability to understand and tackle other sections, including Reading Comprehension, Fill in the Blanks, and Analogies.
In detail, let’s understand how vocabulary impacts key areas of the verbal section:
Reading Comprehension: Complex words can slow you down. A solid vocabulary improves speed and comprehension accuracy.
Sentence Completion & Fill-in-the-Blanks: These demand contextual understanding and synonym/antonym recognition.
Critical Reasoning: Misunderstanding one key term can lead to flawed logic.
Para-jumbles and Odd Sentences: A strong vocabulary helps identify tone shifts and logical flow.
Direct Vocabulary Questions: Especially in exams like XAT, SNAP, and NMAT, vocabulary-based questions appear as synonyms, analogies, idioms, and phrasal verbs.
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Given below is a list of new words that the candidates can learn to enhance their vocabulary. Apart from helping them to score well in the MBA entrance examinations, a good vocabulary is also a strong indicator of the candidate’s high language skills.
Word
Meaning
Usage Example
Abnormal
Not normal
Abnormal behaviour makes one person suspicious of others even in a very positive situation.
Elucidate
To make clear
Try to elucidate the topic clearly so that your listeners are spellbound.
Pacify
To calm
In a situation like this, one has to take charge to pacify others.
Query
Question
The Query of Shritik has to be resolved by today at any cost.
Rapid
Having great speed
Rita walked at a rapid pace along the street when it became dark.
Stationary
Unchanging
A stationary object cannot change its position on its own, so it has to be someone among us.
Uproarious
Noisy
Riya entered the mall to find out that it was completely chaotic and uproarious.
Abject
Miserable
The abject condition in which the slum dwellers live is an eye-opener for the rest nation.
Techniques always help to deal with a wide range of vocabulary, so follow and find your technique to deal with the challenge confidently.
Benefits of a Strong Vocabulary for MBA Aspirants
It is essential for candidates to enhance their vocabulary to perform well in any MBA entrance exam. Language skills are assessed in almost every MBA entrance examination in the country, and the candidates must put a lot of effort into sharpening their vocabulary skills. Some of the major reasons why candidates should have a good vocabulary while preparing for the management entrance examination are:
Comprehension Efficiency: A good stock of vocabulary will help you to read and process RC passages faster. So, to excel in RC, one needs a good vocabulary.
Better Accuracy: Sometimes, many choices can be easily eliminated based on vocabulary, so you’ll be less likely to fall for trap options in multiple-choice questions.
Improved Writing & Interview Performance: A sophisticated vocabulary helps in AWT/WAT, SOPS, and PI rounds. Average vocabulary usage in the correct way can increase your chances of selection.
Greater Confidence in Expression: Essential for GD-PI processes and group exercises. Your content will drive confidence in all rounds.
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How to Choose the Best Vocabulary Book for MBA Preparation
As we know, in our day-to-day life, we come across hundreds of options available, and selecting the right vocabulary book is crucial for efficient preparation. It is necessary for the candidates to choose the right vocabulary books for the MBA exam preparation. Some of the necessary factors that the candidates should consider while selecting their MBA vocabulary preparation books are outlined below.
Factors to Consider: Exam Type, Learning Style & Practice Needs. Every exam requirement is different based on vocabulary and level of difficulty, and types of questions.
Exam Orientation: Every exam is different from one another, so choose wisely, considering some brief pointers.
For CAT/XAT: Choose books with RC and word usage integration.
For GMAT: Opt for GRE-oriented vocabulary books.
For NMAT/SNAP: Focus on high-frequency word lists.
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Learning effectiveness depends on how the candidate receives information.
- Visual learners: Prefer books with diagrams or illustrated content.
- Auditory learners: Benefit from apps with pronunciation support.
- Kinesthetic learners: Prefer flashcards and writing-based activities.
Practice Requirements
Choose books that offer exercises, review tests, and real-world usage. Focus on vocabulary in themes like law, business, and politics, as these are common in RCs.
Top 10 Expert-Recommended Vocabulary Books for MBA
It is important for the candidates to refer to the right MBA preparation resources to ensure that they make the best out of their vocabulary MBA exam preparation. Since there are a lot of materials available online, the candidates might be confused and may end up choosing a resource which may not be suitable for them. This is a common MBA preparation mistake made by candidates. To avert this issue, Careers360 have shortlisted a set of MBA exam preparation books curated for the candidate’s needs.
Book Title
Description
Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis
The first book that is always preferred is this because it is still the gold standard. It is very much structured with modules, quizzes, etymology-based learning, and periodic reviews. Students prefer this the most for all types of exams. Very handy and well-planned, and supports the student's growth and learning.
30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary by Wilfred Funk & Norman Lewis
If someone is trying to work on vocabulary and likes a quick revision and motivational format, this is the best. Best for aspirants who want to improve quickly through daily, bite-sized lessons. Candidates can easily work on their lexicon arena and vocabulary repository.
Barron’s Essential Words for the GRE
For almost a decade, students have trusted this book because of its comprehensive word list with synonyms, sentence examples, and quizzes. Ideal for GMAT and CAT aspirants. GRE students also look for this option with confidence.
All About Words by Rosenblum and Nurnberg
When we plan to work on vocabulary root word methodology helps a lot, and in this book, it focuses on Latin and Greek roots. Helps in decoding unfamiliar words. Helps to work on memory and is good for those who enjoy logical connections.
High School English Grammar and Composition by Wren & Martin
A grammar book, yes—but its vocabulary exercises are useful for application and contextual clarity. The methodology and the question bank are the master stroke. Students prefer to practice and learn from the list provided, with lots of basic insight.
Manhattan Prep’s GMAT Verbal Strategy Guide
One of the best collections for GMAT aspirants. Includes vocabulary in context, reading strategies, and SC-specific guidance. GMAT, CAT, XAT need an array of specific vocabulary, which is very nicely shown in this book. The exercises and the mind mapping of the words help the reader to remember a lot.
Arihant’s Made Easy Vocabulary Book
This special edition is targeted at CAT/XAT aspirants. Focuses on high-frequency words, with sample questions and Indian exam orientation. The best part is the different levels of difficulty that are shown in a correct pattern.
The Vocabulary Builder Workbook by Chris Lele (Magoosh)
Magoosh has been well-received for the last decade by especially GRE, GMAT AND CAT aspirants. It is also something well-trusted and User-friendly, with over 1,400 words. Includes theme-based lessons and beginner-to-advanced progression. This methodology helps the reader to use the mnemonics for new words.
Oxford Word Skills – Intermediate & Advanced
When we consider Oxford, it is widespread in our mind for the last two to three decades, with its branches of interactive learning, with lots of usage examples, phrasal verbs, and idioms. Best for practical learners. Especially for beginners and mediocre students, it can be a good start.
Cambridge Vocabulary for IELTS (Advanced)
Even though IELTS-focused, it’s great for aspirants planning to apply internationally. But vocabulary, there is no limitation. If one is looking for the path to learn, they can simply do anything.
Exam-Specific MBA Preparation Books
Each MBA entrance examination is different. The exam format followed by one examination may not be the same as the other. Hence, following one particular book for all the examinations may not be suitable. Hence, the candidates must follow the exam-specific books to make the most out of the candidate’s preparation.
Best Vocabulary Books for CAT Preparation
While working on the CAT exam, we have to think from the Reading Comprehension, Summary and Para Jumble point of view. In all these segments, words matter a lot. Only 1 to 2 questions from straight vocabulary can be in. The rest depends on logic and finding. So, some books which helped for some time are as follows-
Word Power Made Easy
Arihant’s Made Easy Vocabulary Book
Reading editorial columns in The Hindu, The Economic Times, TED Talk, Mint and Indian Express
Recommended Vocabulary Books for XAT Verbal Ability
In the XAT exam, direct vocabulary questions that are average to difficult can be expected. In the critical reasoning section, and also the reading section, need for keyword tracing. This can only help to score well in this section. So, some books which helped for some time are as follows-
All About Words
30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary
Literary fiction and philosophical essays for abstract RC practice
Poetry Foundation
Best books for improving vocabulary for GMAT
In the GMAT focus edition, we have only RC and CR, so both need word tracing by finding the keyword. General and Jargon both matter over here. So, some books which helped for some time are as follows-
Barron’s GRE Book
Manhattan Prep GMAT Verbal Guides
Articles from The Economist, New Yorker, and The Atlantic
SNAP, NMAT & CMAT Vocabulary Book Recommendations
Candidates are encouraged to incorporate these exercises into their study routine, supplementing their preparation with mock tests that incorporate vocabulary-intensive passages and questions. So, some books which helped for some time are as follows-
30 Days to a More Powerful Vocabulary
TestFunda Vocabulary Booster PDFs
Word lists from Hitbullseye and IMS
How to Use Vocabulary Books for MBA Preparation?
To remember a word or its meaning, it can be helpful to have a "hook" which acts as a memory device. Additionally, you need to practice recalling the word and hearing, seeing, and understanding it repeatedly in various contexts. This will help you to better retain the word and its meaning.
Using flashcards as a helpful study tool
Flashcard technology is still superior and one of the best methods to learn new words. So keep revising the new word along with learning it. For example-
Consider the Cognates and Applications
Think of words directly related to the word in question (cognates) or of phrases that use the word. For example, Semper Fidelis ("Always faithful.") is the motto of the Marines. Therefore, you may one way to expand your vocabulary is by thinking of words that are directly related to the word you're trying to learn, known as cognates. You can also think of phrases that use the word. For instance, the Marines' motto, "Semper Fidelis", means "Always Faithful." By doing this, you might have already started to learn some of these words. Furthermore, it's important to remember that "Fidelis" has a cognate in English, which is "fidelity."
For example-
Here are translations for the word "atheist": Spanish: ateo/a, French: athéiste, Latin: atheos.
In the same way, the word "controversy" comes from the Latin word "controversus".
Practice imagining and articulating
Spend some time meditating on a mental image associated with each word as you say it aloud.
For example, if you're outside, gaze at the tree, some words like “resilient”, adaptable, calmness, catharsis comes to our mind.
Work on the Key-letter Technique
Let's start imagining the keyword that is based on the first or most prominent syllable of a word or the sound of the whole word. Then, create a story or an image that connects this keyword to the meaning of the original word and take the help of stories so that you can help you remember words more easily. So, if you are translating between languages, this keyword can serve as a reminder of the original word.
For example-
Word: Pugnacious
Key Letter: "P"
Association: Imagine that the letter "P" represents "PUGNACIOUS" in the context of a quarrel. Therefore, when you think of the term "quarrel," focus on the letter "P" and associate it with the concept of quarrelsome.
Sentence: She is pugnacious by nature, so that brings the rest of the story.
Reading, Writing, and Reciting Phrases
Deep-processing a word involves discovering, creating, and reviewing phrases that help you connect it to a web of meanings.
Idiom
Meaning
Bite the bullet
To endure a painful experience or face a difficult situation with courage.
Break the ice
To initiate a conversation in a social setting, often to relieve tension.
Cost an arm and a leg
Very expensive or costly.
Hit the hay
To go to bed or go to sleep.
Piece of cake
Something very easy to do.
Burn the midnight oil
To work late into the night or early morning hours.
Under the weather
Feeling ill or sick.
Kick the bucket
To die.
Throw in the towel
To give up or surrender.
Burn bridges
To damage relationships or cut off ties, making it difficult to go back.
Repeat, Repeat, and Repeat
When it comes to memorising important parts and forms of words, sometimes repeating them over and over again is the only way to ensure that they stick in your memory. Regularly speaking the words out loud will help you remember their forms and sounds. This will improve your ability to recognise and recall the words later on for essential vocabulary.
For example-
Word: Pernicious
Repetition:
Encounter: I came across the word "pernicious" in today's news article.
Review: I will deliberately review the meaning of 'pernicious,' which means causing harm or damage.
Use in a sentence: The pernicious nature of the terrorist is dangerous to the whole world.
Repeat: Regularly revisit and use the word in different contexts to reinforce your understanding.
Read widely and Regularly
We have to always keep in mind that reading is an excellent method to enhance our vocabulary without spending any money. However, some experts in linguistics recommend that we initially learn around 3000-to-5000-word families so that we can understand the context well and accurately deduce the meanings of unfamiliar words. Start with something you like, and then the exploration.
Common Mistakes While Building Vocabulary for MBA Exams
It is necessary for the candidates to understand the common mistakes made by test-takers during their MBA exam preparation. This will help them to have a good understanding what to do and what not to do during the vocabulary preparation and the management exam day.
Rote Memorisation Without Usage- Strategy differs from one person to another, so memorising lists without application leads to poor recall. Always revise with example sentences and quiz formats. One can also take the help of root words.
Ignoring Context-Based Learning- The best way to learn is always to use the context. So while reading, forming this habit of taking care of the context makes one an aspirant confident, too.
Skipping Practice Questions and Usage Applications- Vocabulary can be learnt by practising a lot of questions, which we call real-time learning.
MBA Entrance Exam Vocabulary Preparation: Key Takeaways
If you are targeting a good score, then definitely you have to work on essential words for entrance exams, essential words tips that can help you to remember new words: -
Try to use the words in context or in different contexts to help you remember them better.
We have to be mindful of the fact that the internet has a variety of vocabulary tests and language learning tools that you can explore.
Try to be specific in choosing a new 'word of the day' every day, and try to come up with as many ways as possible to use it.
Use the words with your friends, in class or in open-access activities to practice them.
Repeating new words is crucial for remembering them. You can achieve this by copying sentences that contain the word, writing your own sentences, or even creating raps that help you remember the words. It is important to focus on using the words in context instead of just memorising their meanings.
Important Vocabulary Materials Designed by Careers360
The candidates can refer to the materials designed by Careers360 exclusively for the MBA examination preparation of the candidates usig the links given below in the table.
Expand your vocabulary by reading extensively, practising new words in context, and utilising vocabulary-building tools. Additionally, create word lists based on common words, considering the past papers of different famous MBA entrance exams.
Q: Are there specific words I must know for the Verbal Ability section?
A:
It's important to become familiar with topic-specific vocabulary for the different sections of the test. Both Jargon and general words.
Q: Should I focus on synonyms for common words?
A:
Expanding your vocabulary by using synonyms is beneficial as it helps avoid repetition and adds variety to your language.
Q: Can I use complex words in the exam even if I'm not sure of their meaning?
A:
It is recommended to use words that you are confident in using accurately. Using complex words incorrectly may negatively affect your score.
Q: Can using apps help along with books?
A:
There are some good apps like Magoosh, Baron, Dictionary.com, Oxford dictionary, and even some publication houses like The Hindu send words of the day if only subscribe to it.
Q: Which is best for the MBA entrance exam?
A:
The top MBA entrance exams for 2025 in India are listed below.
CAT does not restrict eligibility based on stream. Candidates from commerce, arts, science, engineering or any other background can appear for CAT and apply to MBA programmes offered by IIMs and other top B-schools.
The basic eligibility criteria for CAT are:
You must hold a bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognised university with at least 50 percent marks (45 percent for SC, ST and PwD categories). Final-year graduation students are also eligible to apply.
Being a commerce graduate can actually be an advantage in areas such as accounting, finance, economics and business studies, especially during MBA coursework in finance, marketing and operations.
After qualifying CAT, admission depends on multiple factors including CAT percentile, academic background, work experience (if any), performance in GD, WAT and personal interview rounds. Many IIMs and B-schools follow a diverse academic background policy, which means non-engineering candidates, including commerce graduates, often receive additional weightage.
Apart from IIMs, several reputed institutes such as FMS Delhi, SPJIMR Mumbai, MDI Gurgaon, IMT Ghaziabad, and many state and private universities also accept CAT scores for MBA admissions.
So, as a commerce graduate, you are fully eligible to appear for CAT and pursue an MBA, provided you meet the minimum academic requirements and perform well in the selection process.
If you want, I can also help you with realistic CAT percentile targets based on your academic profile or suggest suitable MBA colleges.
With a CAT 2025 raw score of 84 and strong sectionals, your expected percentile may fail in the high 98 range , depending on scaling. Your excellent academics and 2 years of work experience strengthen your profile .IIM Lucknow calls are possible but competitive for EWS engineers , while FMS Delhi looks mainly at CAT score and VARC , so you have a reasonable chance there . Final calls depend on cutoffs and composite score.
For MANAGE Hyderabad MBA , the OBC cutoff in CAT 2024 was generally around 85-90 percentile for shortlist consideration , tough exact figures vary by section and profile . For CAT 2025, if fewer candidates appeared , the cutoff might slightly adjust , but percentile based cutoffs dont change drastically year to year. A minor decrease is possible , but you should still aim for 90+ percentile to be competitive. Factors like VARC, QA-LRDI and overall profile influence the final shortlist.
For a raw score of 56 in CAT 2025 Slot 3, your expected overall percentile is likely to be in the range of the 90th-95th percentile. The exact percentile can vary slightly on the final normalization process and the process and performance of all test-takers. In this
article
you'll find more about the CAT result.
Hello,
With a projected CAT percentile of 87% but not clearing sectional cutoffs, your chances at top IIMs are limited because they require both overall percentile and sectional minimums. However, you still have a good shot at other reputed management institutes and non-IIM B-schools. Consider colleges like NMIMS, SPJIMR, IMT, TAPMI, Great Lakes, and other well-ranked private or state-level B-schools that accept CAT scores and weigh your profile holistically. Your academic record, BSc in Animation with 80%, and 5 years of work experience at Ubisoft India are strong points and may help in institutes that value work experience in their selection process. Also, explore institutes that accept XAT, MAT, or CMAT, where your profile can be competitive.
Hope this helps you.
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A Sales Manager leads a sales team to meet targets, formulates strategies, analyses performance, and monitors market trends. They typically hold a degree in management or related fields, with an MBA offering added value. The role often demands over 40 hours a week. Strong leadership, planning, and analytical skills are essential for success in this career.
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A Marketing manager plans and executes marketing initiatives to create demand for goods and services and increase consumer awareness of them. A marketing manager prevents unauthorised statements and informs the public that the business is doing everything to investigate and fix the line of products. Students can pursue an MBA in Marketing Management courses to become marketing managers.
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Digital marketing is growing, diverse, and is covering a wide variety of career paths. Each job function aids in the development of effective digital marketing strategies and techniques. The aims and objectives of the individuals who opt for a career as a digital marketing executive are similar to those of a marketing professional: to build brand awareness, promote company services or products, and increase conversions. Individuals who opt for a career as Digital Marketing Executives, unlike traditional marketing companies, communicate effectively through suitable technology platforms.
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In a business analyst job role a lot of analysis is done, things are learned from past mistakes and the successful strategies are enhanced further. A business analyst goes through real-world data in order to provide the most feasible solutions to an organisation. Students can pursue Business Analytics to become Business Analysts.
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