
Learn English Vocabulary – Daily Editorial Analysis – 28 January 2026
This blog post by Veranda RACE helps competitive exam aspirants learn 60+ high-level vocabulary English words with meanings, synonyms, antonyms and usage examples — perfect for Bank Exam, Insurance Exam, Intelligence Bureau, SSC Exam, Railways/RRB Exam, TNTET and UPSC Exam preparation.
This January 2026, Veranda RACE brings a focused learning guide to help competitive exam aspirants strengthen high-level English vocabulary with meanings, synonyms, antonyms and usage examples. This will be ideal for Bank Exams, Insurance Exams, SSC Exams, Railways/RRB Exams, TNTET, UPSC and Intelligence Bureau preparation. With major exams lined up this month such as the IBPS RRB PO Mains, IBPS RRB Clerk Mains, mastering strong vocabulary and comprehension has never been more important for both Prelims and Mains exams.
Reading the Daily Editorial Analysis, curated by Veranda RACE every day, builds your reading comprehension, critical thinking and vocabulary recall. It sharpens your ability to handle descriptive papers, mains answer writing and tricky prelims passages. Designed for clarity, accuracy and exam relevance, this English vocabulary series helps aspirants stay ahead of the curve. Prepare smarter with contextual learning from trusted sources, only at Veranda RACE.

Daily Editorial Vocabulary Analysis – 28 January 2026
1. Quest
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: A long or arduous search for something; a pursuit or endeavour to achieve a goal
Tamil Meaning: தேடுதல், நோக்கம்
Malayalam Meaning: അന്വേഷണം, ലക്ഷ്യം
Kannada Meaning: ಹುಡುಕಾಟ, ಉದ್ದೇಶ
Synonyms: search, pursuit, endeavour, mission, expedition
Antonyms: idleness, inactivity, surrender
Usage in Sentence: The country’s ambitious quest to achieve 500 GW of renewable energy capacity reflects its commitment to sustainable development.
2. Buoyed
Part of speech: Verb (Past participle)
Meaning: To keep something afloat or to make someone feel happy and confident
Tamil Meaning: உயர்த்தப்பட்ட
Malayalam Meaning: ഉയർത്തപ്പെട്ട, സന്തോഷിപ്പിച്ച
Kannada Meaning: ಮೇಲಕ್ಕೆ ಎತ್ತಲಾದ, ಸಂತೋಷವುಳ್ಳ
Synonyms: lifted, encouraged, uplifted, supported, elevated
Antonyms: depressed, discouraged, deflated, lowered
Usage in Sentence: The successful track record in telecom manufacturing buoyed the administration’s s confidence in implementing similar industrial schemes.
3. Momentum
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: The force or speed that something has when it is moving; the impetus or driving force behind something
Tamil Meaning: வேகம், உந்துதல்
Malayalam Meaning: വേഗത, നിരന്തര പ്രവർത്തനം
Kannada Meaning: ವೇಗ, ಚಲನ
Synonyms: impetus, speed, drive, force, thrust
Antonyms: stagnation, inertia, slowness, hesitation
Usage in Sentence: The PLI scheme's momentum in the telecom sector encouraged policymakers to expand it to renewable energy manufacturing.
4. Predetermined
Part of speech: Adjective
Meaning: Decided or arranged in advance, fixed beforehand
Tamil Meaning: முன்னரே நிர்ணயிக்கப்பட்ட
Malayalam Meaning: മുൻപ് നിശ്ചയിച്ച
Kannada Meaning: ಮುಂಚಿತವಾಗಿ ನಿರ್ಧರಿಸಲಾದ
Synonyms: planned, fixed, arranged, prearranged, scheduled
Antonyms: spontaneous, unplanned, random, improvised
Usage in Sentence: The PLI scheme operates on predetermined targets that manufacturers must achieve to receive incentives.
5. Daunting
Part of speech: Adjective
Meaning: Seeming difficult or impossible to deal with; intimidating or discouraging
Tamil Meaning: அச்சுறுத்தும்
Malayalam Meaning: ഭയാനകമായ
Kannada Meaning: ಭೀತಿಸುವ
Synonyms: intimidating, challenging, formidable, discouraging, daunting
Antonyms: encouraging, easy, simple, reassuring, inviting
Usage in Sentence: The daunting challenge of developing indigenous polysilicon production capabilities requires substantial technological advancement.
6. Robust
Part of speech: Adjective
Meaning: Strong and healthy; sturdy and well built; vigorous and effective
Tamil Meaning: வலுவான, உறுதியான
Malayalam Meaning: ശക്തമായ, നിലയുള്ള
Kannada Meaning: ಬಲವಾದ, ದೃಢವಾದ
Synonyms: strong, sturdy, solid, vigorous, healthy
Antonyms: weak, fragile, delicate, feeble, frail
Usage in Sentence: The downstream solar module assembly sector has shown robust progress in meeting production targets.
7. Bottleneck
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: A situation where progress is limited or held back by a single factor; a point of congestion or constraint
Tamil Meaning: தடை, பிரச்சனை
Malayalam Meaning: തടസ്സം, പ്രശ്നം
Kannada Meaning: ತೊಂದರೆ, ಅಡಚಣೆ
Synonyms: constraint, obstruction, hindrance, limitation, impediment
Antonyms: facilitation, acceleration, smoothness, ease
Usage in Sentence: The lack of domestic polysilicon manufacturing capacity remains a critical bottleneck in the country’s solar industry expansion.
8. Disparity
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: A great difference or inequality between things; a lack of similarity or balance
Tamil Meaning: ஏற்றத்தாழ்வு, வேறுபாடு
Malayalam Meaning: വ്യത്യാസം, അസമത
Kannada Meaning: ವ್ಯತ್ಯಾಸ, ಅಸಮತೆ
Synonyms: difference, inequality, discrepancy, contrast, gap
Antonyms: equality, similarity, uniformity, parity
Usage in Sentence: The disparity between downstream and upstream manufacturing progress indicates systemic challenges in the solar supply chain.
9. Persistent
Part of speech: Adjective
Meaning: Continuing firmly or obstinately despite opposition or difficulty; lasting over a prolonged period
Tamil Meaning: தொடர்ந்த, விடாமுயற்சியான
Malayalam Meaning: തുടരുന്ന, നിരന്തരമായ
Kannada Meaning: ಮುಂದುವರೆಯುವ, ನಿರಂತರ
Synonyms: continuous, determined, stubborn, lasting, ongoing
Antonyms: temporary, sporadic, yielding, transient, brief
Usage in Sentence: The country's persistent dependence on imported raw materials undermines the goal of achieving technological self-sufficiency.
10. Expertise
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: Expert skill or knowledge in a particular subject or activity
Tamil Meaning: நிபுணத்துவம், தேர்ச்சி
Malayalam Meaning: വിദഗ്ധത, പരിജ്ഞാനം
Kannada Meaning: ತಜ್ಞತೆ, ಜ್ಞಾನ
Synonyms: skill, knowledge, proficiency, competence, experience
Antonyms: ignorance, inexperience, incompetence, naivety
Usage in Sentence: The shortage of local expertise in battery cell manufacturing necessitates technology transfer from international partners.
11. Subsidy
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: Money granted by the government or an institution to help keep the price of a service or product low
Tamil Meaning: மானியம்
Malayalam Meaning: സബ്സിഡി
Kannada Meaning: ಸಬ್ಸಿಡಿ
Synonyms: grants, allowances, financial aid, support, assistance
Antonyms: taxes, charges, levies, fees
Usage in Sentence: The administration is considering additional capital subsidies to reduce the financial risk for companies investing in polysilicon production.
12. De-risk
Part of speech: Verb
Meaning: To reduce or eliminate the risk associated with an investment or undertaking
Tamil Meaning: ஆபத்தை குறைத்தல்
Malayalam Meaning: അപായം കുറയ്ക്കുക
Kannada Meaning: ಅಪಾಯ ಕಡಿಮೆ ಮಾಡುವುದು
Synonyms: mitigate, reduce risk, safeguard, protect, insure
Antonyms: risk, endanger, expose, jeopardise
Usage in Sentence: Capital subsidies aim to de-risk high-investment upstream manufacturing projects that are crucial for supply chain independence.
13. Capex
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: Capital expenditure; money spent by a company on acquiring, upgrading and maintaining physical assets such as buildings and equipment
Tamil Meaning: மூலதன செலவு
Malayalam Meaning: മൂലധന ചെലവ്
Kannada Meaning: ಮೂಲಧನ ವೆಚ್ಚ
Synonyms: capital expenditure, investment, capital spending, fixed assets
Antonyms: operating expense, current expense, revenue spending
Usage in Sentence: The high capex requirements of polysilicon manufacturing deter many companies from entering the sector without support.
14. Woes
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: Serious problems or difficulties; states of distress or unhappiness
Tamil Meaning: துன்பம், சிரமம்
Malayalam Meaning: കഷ്ടം, പ്രതിസന്ധി
Kannada Meaning: ತೊಂದರೆ, ಕಷ್ಟ
Synonyms: problems, difficulties, troubles, distress, misfortunes
Antonyms: joys, blessings, fortunes, happiness, ease
Usage in Sentence: Similar woes plague the battery manufacturing scheme, where capacity additions have fallen significantly short of targets.
15. Stalk
Part of speech: Verb
Meaning: To follow stealthily; to haunt or pursue persistently
Tamil Meaning: பின்தொடர்தல், வேட்டையாடல்
Malayalam Meaning: പിന്തുടരുക, വേട
Kannada Meaning: ಹಿಂಬಾಲಿಸುವುದು, ಬೇಟೆ
Synonyms: follow, pursue, haunt, shadow, hunt
Antonyms: abandon, flee, avoid, ignore
Usage in Sentence: Implementation challenges stalk the battery cell manufacturing initiative, threatening to derail the country’s electric vehicle ambitions.
16. Outlay
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: Money spent on something; the amount of expenditure required for a particular purpose
Tamil Meaning: செலவு
Malayalam Meaning: ചെലവ്
Kannada Meaning: ವೆಚ್ಚ
Synonyms: expenditure, spending, cost, investment, disbursement
Antonyms: income, receipt, profit, return
Usage in Sentence: With an outlay of 18,000 crore rupees, the battery manufacturing scheme represents a significant commitment to the EV revolution.
17. Sluggish
Part of speech: Adjective
Meaning: Moving slowly, lacking energy or liveliness; slow to respond or progress
Tamil Meaning: மந்தமான, செயலற்ற
Malayalam Meaning: സാന്ത്വനപ്പെട്ട, മന്ദഗതിയുള്ള
Kannada Meaning: ಮಂದಗತಿಯ, ತೇಲುವ
Synonyms: slow, sluggish, lethargic, torpid, sluggish
Antonyms: vigorous, brisk, energetic, swift, active
Usage in Sentence: The sluggish pace of battery cell commissioning indicates fundamental structural issues in the manufacturing ecosystem.
18. Commissioned
Part of speech: Verb (Past participle)
Meaning: To formally put something such as a ship or aircraft into service; to order or approve the production of something
Tamil Meaning: ஆணை இடப்பட்ட, பணிக்கு அனுப்பப்பட்ட
Malayalam Meaning: നിയോഗിക്കപ്പെട്ട, സേവനത്തിൽ നിയോഗിച്ച
Kannada Meaning: ನಿಯೋಜಿಸಲಾದ, ಕೆಲಸಕ್ಕೆ ಸಿದ್ಧಗೊಳಿಸಲಾದ
Synonyms: deployed, activated, inaugurated, established, initiated
Antonyms: decommissioned, mothballed, closed, abandoned
Usage in Sentence: Only 1.4 GWh of the targeted 50 GWh battery cell capacity has been commissioned by late 2025.
19. Stringent
Part of speech: Adjective
Meaning: Strict, severe and demanding strict attention to rules or requirements
Tamil Meaning: கடுமையான, கண்டிப்பான
Malayalam Meaning: കാഠിന്യമായ, വിനയമായ
Kannada Meaning: ಕಠೋರ, ಕಠಿಣ
Synonyms: strict, severe, rigorous, demanding, strict
Antonyms: lenient, flexible, relaxed, permissive, loose
Usage in Sentence: The stringent domestic value addition requirements of 25 per cent within two years present a significant challenge for manufacturers.
20. Mandating
Part of speech: Verb (Present participle)
Meaning: To make something mandatory or obligatory; to require by command or authority
Tamil Meaning: கட்டாயப்படுத்துதல், கூறுதல்
Malayalam Meaning: നിർബന്ധിത കൽപ്പന ആക്കുക
Kannada Meaning: ಕಟ್ಟಾಯ ಮಾಡುವುದು, ಆದೇಶ ನೀಡುವುದು
Synonyms: requiring, compelling, ordering, directing, commanding
Antonyms: permitting, allowing, enabling, facilitating
Usage in Sentence: The policy mandating 60 per cent domestic value addition within five years places unrealistic expectations on manufacturers.
21. Substantially
Part of speech: Adverb
Meaning: In a significant or important way; to a large extent or degree
Tamil Meaning: கணிசமாக, பெரியளவில்
Malayalam Meaning: ഗണ്യമായി, വലിയ അളവിൽ
Kannada Meaning: ಗಮನಾರ್ಹವಾಗಿ, ವ್ಯಾಪಕವಾಗಿ
Synonyms: significantly, considerably, materially, largely, greatly
Antonyms: slightly, minimally, negligibly, insignificantly
Usage in Sentence: The administration’s belief that capital support will substantially transform high-technology manufacturing is misplaced without concurrent technical support.
22. Misplaced
Part of speech: Adjective
Meaning: Inappropriate or unwisely directed; put in the wrong place
Tamil Meaning: தவறான இடத்தில் வைக்கப்பட்ட, முறையற்ற
Malayalam Meaning: അനുചിതമായ, തെറ്റായി സ്ഥാപിതമായ
Kannada Meaning: ತಪ್ಪು ಸ್ಥಾನದಲ್ಲಿ, ಅಸಮರ್ಪಕ
Synonyms: inappropriate, unsuitable, unwisely placed, misguided, inept
Antonyms: appropriate, suitable, correctly placed, well directed, apt
Usage in Sentence: The administration's expectation that capital alone will ensure advanced manufacturing is misplaced without addressing underlying technical deficiencies.
23. Intensive
Part of speech: Adjective
Meaning: Requiring or involving concentrated effort, resources or labour
Tamil Meaning: முழுமையான, தீவிரமான
Malayalam Meaning: സാരവത്തായ, തീവ്രമായ
Kannada Meaning: ತೀವ್ರ, ಸಾಕಷ್ಟು
Synonyms: concentrated, demanding, thorough, rigorous, deep
Antonyms: superficial, light, casual, minimal, sparse
Usage in Sentence: International technology transfers are capital intensive and often fail to deliver immediate commercial returns for manufacturers.
24. Steep
Part of speech: Adjective
Meaning: Having a sharp slope or gradient; extremely high or excessive in amount
Tamil Meaning: செங்குத்தான, அதிகமான
Malayalam Meaning: കുത്തനെയായ, അത്യധികമായ
Kannada Meaning: ಚೆಂದಾಗಿರುವ, ಅತ್ಯಧಿಕ
Synonyms: high, excessive, sharp, precipitous, extreme
Antonyms: gradual, gentle, moderate, low, reasonable
Usage in Sentence: Several companies face steep penalties for failing to deliver on their manufacturing commitments under the PLI scheme.
25. Relook
Part of speech: Noun/Verb
Meaning: A fresh examination or reconsideration of something
Tamil Meaning: மீண்டும் பார்த்தல் / சுய பரிசோதனை
Malayalam Meaning: വീണ്ടും നോക്കുക
Kannada Meaning: ಮತ್ತೆ ನೋಡುವುದು
Synonyms: reconsideration, reassessment, reexamination, review, revision
Antonyms: acceptance, finality, dismissal
Usage in Sentence: A relook at PLI provisions is necessary to prioritise technical expertise over the financial capacity of bidding companies.
26. Prioritise
Part of speech: Verb
Meaning: To arrange or deal with in order of importance; to give special attention or precedence to something
Tamil Meaning: முன்னுரிமை கொடுக்குதல், முக்கியத்துவம் தருதல்
Malayalam Meaning: മുന്നെത്തൽ നൽകുക, പ്രാധാന്യം ഏൽപ്പിക്കുക
Kannada Meaning: ಅಗ್ರಾಧಿಕಾರ ನೀಡುವುದು, ಮುಖ್ಯತೆ ನೀಡುವುದು
Synonyms: rank, emphasise, stress, prefer, feature
Antonyms: deprioritise, marginalise, downplay, neglect, ignore
Usage in Sentence: The administration should prioritise technical know-how and expertise over the net worth of companies applying for PLI contracts.
27. Know-how
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: Practical knowledge and skill in doing something; technical expertise and understanding
Tamil Meaning: நடைமுறை அறிவு, வளம்
Malayalam Meaning: പ്രായോഗിക അറിവ്, കൗശലം
Kannada Meaning: ಪ್ರಾಯೋಗಿಕ ಜ್ಞಾನ, ಕೌಶಲ್ಯ
Synonyms: expertise, skill, knowledge, competence, proficiency
Antonyms: ignorance, inexperience, incompetence, naivety
Usage in Sentence: Technology transfer and know-how from experienced global manufacturers are essential for manufacturing ambitions.
28. Unfolding
Part of speech: Verb (Present participle)
Meaning: To open out from a folded position; to reveal or develop gradually over time
Tamil Meaning: விரிந்து கொண்டிருப்பது, நிகழ்ந்து கொண்டிருப்பது
Malayalam Meaning: വികസിച്ചുകൊണ്ടിരിക്കുന്ന, നിരൂപിതമായ
Kannada Meaning: ಬಿಕ್ಕಟ್ಟೊ ತೀರುತ್ತಿರುವ, ಅನ್ವೇಷಣೆ ನಡೆಸುತ್ತಿರುವ
Synonyms: developing, revealing, opening, emerging, unrolling
Antonyms: concealing, folding, closing, hiding, suppressing
Usage in Sentence: The situation unfolding in Venezuela reveals the persistence of imperial intervention in global affairs.
29. Imperialism
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: The policy of extending a country's power and influence through colonisation, military force, or other means
Tamil Meaning: ஆதிக்க நிலை
Malayalam Meaning: അധിപതി വ്യവസ്ഥ
Kannada Meaning: ಅಧಿಕಾರವಾದ
Synonyms: colonialism, expansionism, domination, supremacy, hegemony
Antonyms: independence, autonomy, sovereignty, freedom, self determination
Usage in Sentence: The editorial argues that Washington's approach to Venezuela represents naked imperialism disguised as humanitarian intervention.
30. Abduction
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: The act of taking someone away illegally or by force; kidnapping
Tamil Meaning: கடத்தல், கவர்தல்
Malayalam Meaning: കവർ പ്പേയ്ക, ആരോഗ്യ കൊണ്ടുവരുക
Kannada Meaning: ತೆನೆಸುವುದು, ಕಿತ್ತುಕೊಡುವುದು
Synonyms: kidnapping, seizure, removal, capture, snatching
Antonyms: release, liberation, freedom, repatriation
Usage in Sentence: The abduction of Venezuela's president by the US constitutes a violation of international law and sovereignty.
31. Imposed
Part of speech: Verb (Past participle)
Meaning: To force something unwillingly on a person or group; to establish or apply with authority
Tamil Meaning: திணிக்கப்பட்ட, செய்யச் சொல்லப்பட்ட
Malayalam Meaning: അടിച്ചേൽപ്പിച്ച, നിഷ്കർഷിച്ച
Kannada Meaning: ಪ್ರತಿಪಾದಿಸಲಾದ, ಕೃತ್ರಿಮವಾಗಿ ಲಾಗು ಮಾಡಲಾದ
Synonyms: inflicted, forced, applied, established, instituted
Antonyms: lifted, removed, withdrawn, rescinded, revoked
Usage in Sentence: The naval blockade imposed on Venezuela by the US aims to coerce political and economic submission.
32. Blockade
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: A seal or closure of a place to prevent goods or people from entering or leaving; an act of sealing off
Tamil Meaning: முற்றுகை, தடை
Malayalam Meaning: നിരോധനം, സീല്
Kannada Meaning: ಮುತ್ತಿಗೆ, ಮುಚ್ಚುವುದು
Synonyms: siege, seal, embargo, barrier, obstruction
Antonyms: opening, access, passage, freedom
Usage in Sentence: The imposition of a naval blockade represents an act of economic warfare against a sovereign nation.
33. Endorsed
Part of speech: Verb (Past tense)
Meaning: To declare one's public approval or support for something or someone
Tamil Meaning: ஆதரவு கொடுத்த, ஒப்புக்கொண்ட
Malayalam Meaning: അംഗീകരിച്ച, അനുകൂലിച്ച
Kannada Meaning: ಅನುಮತಿಸಿದ, ಸಮರ್ಥಿಸಿದ
Synonyms: supported, backed, approved, ratified, sanctioned
Antonyms: rejected, opposed, disapproved, condemned, disowned
Usage in Sentence: The US administration endorsed Rodriguez while simultaneously maintaining economic pressure on her government.
34. Diminish
Part of speech: Verb
Meaning: To make or become smaller, weaker or less important; to reduce in size or significance
Tamil Meaning: குறைத்தல், சிறிதாக்குதல்
Malayalam Meaning: കുറയ്ക്കുക, ചെറുക്കുക
Kannada Meaning: ಕಡಿಮೆ ಮಾಡುವುದು, ದುರ್ಬಲ ಮಾಡುವುದು
Synonyms: reduce, decrease, weaken, lessen, decline
Antonyms: increase, strengthen, enhance, amplify, magnify
Usage in Sentence: The endorsement of the new president does not diminish the criminality of orchestrating the abduction of her predecessor.
35. Merely
Part of speech: Adverb
Meaning: Just or simply; only, nothing more than
Tamil Meaning: வெறும், ஒன்றும் அல்ல
Malayalam Meaning: മാത്രമായി, വെറും
Kannada Meaning: ಕೇವಲ, ಉಂಟೆ
Synonyms: simply, just, only, purely, solely
Antonyms: significantly, importantly, substantially, considerably
Usage in Sentence: Trump's support for Rodriguez merely reveals Washington's true objective, which is control over Venezuela's oil resources.
36. Retain
Part of speech: Verb
Meaning: To keep or continue to have something; to maintain possession or control of something
Tamil Meaning: தக்கவைத்துக் கொள்ளுதல், வைத்துக்கொள்ளுதல்
Malayalam Meaning: പരിരക്ഷിക്കുക, ഉരുക്കാണ് വെപ്പിക്കുക
Kannada Meaning: ಹೊಂದಿಕೊಂಡುಕೊಳ್ಳುವುದು, ಕಾಪಾಡಿಕೊಳ್ಳುವುದು
Synonyms: keep, maintain, preserve, hold, continue
Antonyms: release, abandon, lose, surrender, relinquish
Usage in Sentence: The team wishes to retain the star player as the captain for the upcoming tournament.
37. Strangling
Part of speech: Verb (Present participle)
Meaning: To squeeze tightly around the neck to prevent breathing; to suppress or inhibit the growth or development of something
Tamil Meaning: கழுத்தை நெரிப்பது, அடக்குதல்
Malayalam Meaning: കഴുത്തിൽ പിഞ്ചുക, അടിച്ചുമാറ്റുക
Kannada Meaning: ಗಂಟನಾಡಿಯನ್ನು ಒತ್ತುವುದು, ನಿರ್ಬಂಧಿಸುವುದು
Synonyms: suppressing, choking, suffocating, inhibiting, constraining
Antonyms: liberating, freeing, enabling, encouraging, facilitating
Usage in Sentence: By strangling the freedom of speech, the administration has done a grave mistake.
38. Sovereignty
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: The power of a country to govern itself and make its own decisions without external interference
Tamil Meaning: சுயாட்சி
Malayalam Meaning: സ്വതന്ത്ര അധികാരം
Kannada Meaning: ಸ್ವತಂತ್ರತೆ
Synonyms: autonomy, independence, self-governance, authority, power
Antonyms: dependence, subjugation, subordination, vassalage
Usage in Sentence: The violation of the country’s sovereignty by orchestrating regime change represents a fundamental breach of international law.
39. Coherent
Part of speech: Adjective
Meaning: Logical and consistent; clearly thought out or expressed in an orderly and understandable way
Tamil Meaning: ஒருபோக்கான, சாத்தியமான
Malayalam Meaning: സംബന്ധിത, സ്പഷ്ടമായ
Kannada Meaning: ಸುಸಂಬದ್ಧ, ತಾರ್ಕಿಕ
Synonyms: logical, consistent, rational, coherent, ordered
Antonyms: contradictory, incoherent, illogical, confused, inconsistent
Usage in Sentence: The contradictions in the country’s policy toward other countries follow a coherent logic centred on resource control rather than democratic principles.
40. Dismantling
Part of speech: Verb (Present participle)
Meaning: To take apart a structure or system; to dismantle or destroy something systematically
Tamil Meaning: நீக்குதல், இடித்தல்
Malayalam Meaning: ഭരണം ഉന്നയിക്കുക, തകർക്കുക
Kannada Meaning: ಭಾಗಭಾಗವಾಗಿ ಓಡಿಸುವುದು, ವಿನಾಶ ಮಾಡುವುದು
Synonyms: dismantling, dismaying, destroying, disassembling, breaking
Antonyms: building, constructing, assembling, establishing, creating
Usage in Sentence: The war demonstrated that dismantling state structures creates insurgencies rather than stable governance.
41. Insurgencies
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: Violent revolts against authority; acts of insurrection by those not recognised as combatants
Tamil Meaning: கிளர்ச்சி, எழுச்சி
Malayalam Meaning: കലാപം, പ്രതിരോധ പ്രവർത്തനം
Kannada Meaning: ದಂಗೆ, ಕ್ರಾಂತಿ
Synonyms: rebellions, revolts, uprisings, insurrections, resistance
Antonyms: obedience, submission, compliance, peace, order
Usage in Sentence: The policymakers learned from the warring regions that dismantling state structures inevitably leads to violent insurgencies and prolonged conflict.
42. Apparatus
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: The structure and systems of an organisation or government; a set of tools or equipment designed for a specific purpose
Tamil Meaning: கருவி
Malayalam Meaning: യന്ത്രം
Kannada Meaning: ಉಪಕರಣ
Synonyms: system, mechanism, structure, organisation, infrastructure
Antonyms: chaos, disorder, disorganisation, anarchy
Usage in Sentence: The administration prefers to capture and redirect the existing state apparatus rather than destroy it and manage the resulting chaos.
43. Neocolonialism
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: The practice of using economic or political pressure to control a country instead of direct military force or political control
Tamil Meaning: புதிய சாம்ராஜ்யவாதம்
Malayalam Meaning: പുതിയ സാമ്രാജ്യവാദം
Kannada Meaning: ಹೊಸ ಸಾಮ್ರಾಜ್ಯವಾದ
Synonyms: economic imperialism, indirect control, hegemony, dominance, subjugation
Antonyms: independence, autonomy, self-determination, equality
Usage in Sentence: The strategy toward the other countries exemplifies neocolonialism, maintaining formal sovereignty while exercising actual control.
44. Statehood
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: The status of being an independent country recognised in international law
Tamil Meaning: நாட்டின் நிலை, ஆட்சி நிலை
Malayalam Meaning: രാജ്യത്വം, സ്ഥാനം
Kannada Meaning: ರಾಷ್ಟ್ರೀಯ ಸ್ಥಾನ, ದೇಶದ ಅಸ್ತಿತ್ವ
Synonyms: national status, sovereignty, independence, nationhood
Antonyms: colonialism, dependence, subjugation, vassalage
Usage in Sentence: Neocolonial arrangements maintain the formal appearance of statehood while stripping away genuine political and economic autonomy.
45. Resisting
Part of speech: Verb (Present participle)
Meaning:
To oppose or fight against something; to refuse to comply with or submit to
Tamil Meaning: எதிர்த்தல்
Malayalam Meaning: പ്രതിരോധം കാട്ടുക
Kannada Meaning: ವಿರೋಧ ಮಾಡುವುದು
Synonyms: opposing, fighting, defying, refusing, withstanding
Antonyms: accepting, surrendering, yielding, submitting, complying
Usage in Sentence: The Bolivarian movement was founded on resisting precisely this form of American economic domination over Venezuelan resources.
46. Domination
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: The exercise of control or power over someone or something; the state of being ruled or controlled by another
Tamil Meaning: ஆதிக்கம், கட்டுப்பாடு
Malayalam Meaning: ആധിപത്യം, നിയന്ത്രണം
Kannada Meaning: ಆಳುವುದು, ನಿಯಂತ್ರಣ
Synonyms: control, supremacy, authority, rule, power
Antonyms: liberation, freedom, independence, equality, submission
Usage in Sentence: The home team completely dominated the tournament with superior performances.
47. Battered
Part of speech: Adjective
Meaning: Having been hit, damaged or worn by repeated blows or harsh treatment; weakened or exhausted
Tamil Meaning: தாக்கப்பட்ட, சேதப்பட்ட
Malayalam Meaning: ആഘാതപ്പെട്ട, നിരാകരണം ചെയ്യപ്പെട്ട
Kannada Meaning: ಹೊಡೆಯುವುದು ಆಗಿರುವ, ಧ್ವಂಸಗೊಂಡ
Synonyms: damaged, bruised, worn, injured, weakened
Antonyms: intact, unharmed, strong, restored, refreshed
Usage in Sentence: The battered economy, ravaged by a decade of sanctions, now faces pressure to capitulate to the country’s demands.
48. Sanctions
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: Penalties imposed on a country or person by other countries or organisations to force compliance with international law or standards
Tamil Meaning: தண்டனை, கூட்டாக விதிக்கப்பட்ட தண்டனை
Malayalam Meaning: ശിക്ഷ, വിലക്കായ്ക്കൻ
Kannada Meaning: ಆದೇಶ, ವಿಧಿಸುವುದು
Synonyms: penalties, restrictions, embargoes, punishments, restrictions
Antonyms: allowances, permissions, licenses, approvals
Usage in Sentence: The recent economic sanctions devastated the country’s economy and triggered the migration crisis.
49. Negotiate
Part of speech: Verb
Meaning: To discuss or bargain with another party to reach an agreement; to discuss terms
Tamil Meaning: பேச்சுவார்த்தை நடத்துதல், உடன்படிக்கை செய்ய முயல்தல்
Malayalam Meaning: ചർച്ച നടത്തുക, കരാറ് ചെയ്യുക
Kannada Meaning: ಸಮಝೋತೆ ಮಾಡುವುದು, ಮಾತುಕತೆ ಮಾಡುವುದು
Synonyms: discuss, bargain, parley, confer, arrange
Antonyms: refuse, reject, decline, resist
Usage in Sentence: The new administrator must now negotiate with all the workers to bring them to work together without any problems.
50. Kidnapped
Part of speech: Verb (Past tense)
Meaning: To take someone away illegally or by force, typically for ransom or as a hostage
Tamil Meaning: கடத்தப்பட்ட
Malayalam Meaning: തട്ടിക്കൊണ്ടുപോയ
Kannada Meaning: ಅಪಹರಣ ಮಾಡಲಾದ
Synonyms: abducted, seized, captured, snatched, stolen
Antonyms: released, freed, liberated, returned
Usage in Sentence: The administration now stands accused of pressuring the leader to negotiate with the very nation that kidnapped her predecessor.
51. Predecessor
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: A person who held a position or office before the current holder
Tamil Meaning: பதவியில் முன்னிருந்தவர்
Malayalam Meaning: മുൻ ഉദ്യോഗസ്ഥൻ
Kannada Meaning: ಹಿಂದಿನ ನೇತೃ
Synonyms: antecedent, former holder, previous occupant, earlier official
Antonyms: successor, successor
Usage in Sentence: The abduction of her predecessor violates the basic tenets of international law and diplomatic protocol.
52. Complied
Part of speech: Verb (Past tense)
Meaning: To act in accordance with a rule, law or request; to obey or conform
Tamil Meaning: கட்டுப்பட்ட, கீழ்ப்பட்ட
Malayalam Meaning: അനുസരിച്ച, കീഴുപ്പെട്ട
Kannada Meaning: ಪಾಲಿಸಿದ, ಅನುಸರಿಸಿದ
Synonyms: obeyed, conformed, adhered, acceded, acquiesced
Antonyms: refused, resisted, defied, rejected, opposed
Usage in Sentence: The new leader has complied with the opposition demands on oil trade, but risks losing her political base by appearing weak.
53. Sustains
Part of speech: Verb
Meaning: To keep something going or maintain its continuance; to support the weight of; to undergo or experience
Tamil Meaning: தாங்குதல், ஆதரவு கொடுத்தல்
Malayalam Meaning: പരിപാലിക്കുക, പിന്തുണയ്ക്കുക
Kannada Meaning: ಹೆಂಬಾಳಿಸುವುದು, ಬೆಂಬಲಿಸುವುದು
Synonyms: maintains, supports, upholds, bears, endures
Antonyms: abandons, withdraws, undermines, collapses
Usage in Sentence: The political base that sustains administration will erode if she appears to capitulate to the economical pressure.
54. Instability
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: The quality of being unstable; a state of not being firmly fixed or established; lack of stability
Tamil Meaning: நிலையற்றவை, மாறுதல்
Malayalam Meaning: അസ്ഥിരത, സ്ഥിരത ഇല്ലായ്മ
Kannada Meaning: ಅಸ್ಥಿರತೆ, ಕ್ಷಿಪ್ರ ಬದಲಾವಣೆ
Synonyms: instability, unsteadiness, volatility, turbulence, disorder
Antonyms: stability, steadiness, firmness, constancy, equilibrium
Usage in Sentence: The more pressure the country applies to the opposition, the more it risks creating the very instability it claims to prevent.
55. Embarked
Part of speech: Verb (Past tense)
Meaning: To start or begin a journey, project, or undertaking; to go on board a ship or aircraft
Tamil Meaning: கிளம்பியது, தொடங்கியது
Malayalam Meaning: പ്രയാണം ആരംഭിച്ച, തുടങ്ങിയ
Kannada Meaning: ಪ್ರಯಾಣ ಪ್ರಾರಂಭಿಸಿದ, ಆರಂಭಿಸಿದ
Synonyms: began, started, commenced, initiated, launched
Antonyms: ended, concluded, finished, completed, terminated
Usage in Sentence: The country should not have embarked on this destructive path of military and economic pressure against neighbouring ones.
56. Marauding
Part of speech: Adjective
Meaning: Going about in search of plunder or prey; raiding or pillaging for gain
Tamil Meaning: கொள்ளையடித்தல்,சூறையாடுதல்
Malayalam Meaning: കൊള്ളയാടുന്ന, തകർച്ച വരുത്തുന്ന
Kannada Meaning: ಲೂಟಿ-ಹೋಳೆ ಮಾಡುವ, ಮುಷ್ಕರ ನಡೆತೆ
Synonyms: plundering, looting, pillaging, raiding, predatory
Antonyms: peaceful, constructive, beneficial, protective
Usage in Sentence: The editorial condemns the country’s foreign policy toward opposition as a marauding imperial project disguised as democratic promotion.
57. Devastated
Part of speech: Verb (Past participle)
Meaning: To destroy or ruin something completely; to cause someone great emotional pain or shock
Tamil Meaning: அழிக்கப்பட்ட, தீர்க்கமாக கெடுக்கப்பட்ட
Malayalam Meaning: നശിപ്പിക്കപ്പെട്ട, തകർക്കപ്പെട്ട
Kannada Meaning: ನಾಶ ಪಡಿಸಿದ, ವಿನಾಶ ಗೊಂಡ
Synonyms: destroyed, ravaged, ruined, wrecked, demolished
Antonyms: built, constructed, preserved, protected, strengthened
Usage in Sentence: The new economic sanctions devastated the country’s economy and created the humanitarian crisis.
58. Migration
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: The movement of people from one country or region to another; a seasonal movement of populations
Tamil Meaning: இடம் பெயர்தல், வலம் வருதல்
Malayalam Meaning: കുടിയേറ്റം, സ്ഥലം മാറ്റം
Kannada Meaning: ವಲಸೆ, ಸ್ಥಳ ಪರಿವರ್ತನೆ
Synonyms: movement, displacement, relocation, exodus, immigration
Antonyms: settlement, residence, permanence, stillness
Usage in Sentence: The migration crisis in the continent is a direct consequence of economic sanctions and policies toward the country.
59. Intervention
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: The action of intervening or getting involved in a situation to alter its course; interference or intrusion
Tamil Meaning: குறுக்கீடு, தலையிடுதல்
Malayalam Meaning: ഇടപെടൽ, അതിക്രമണം
Kannada Meaning: ಹಸ್ತಕ್ಷೇಪ, ಮಧ್ಯಸ್ಥತೆ
Synonyms: interference, intrusion, involvement, mediation, intercession
Antonyms: non-interference, withdrawal, abstention, detachment
Usage in Sentence: The administrator cited the migration crisis to justify intervention in the country, ignoring its own role in creating the crisis.
60. Extortion
Part of speech: Noun
Meaning: The practice of obtaining something from someone through coercion, typically threats or force
Tamil Meaning: அச்சுறுத்தல் வாயிலான பணம் பெறுதல், கொடுமை செய்து பெறுதல்
Malayalam Meaning: ജബരദസ്തിയിലൂടെ സാമ്പത്തിക നേട്ടം കൈവരിക്കൽ, ഭ്രുണയം
Kannada Meaning: ಬಲದಿಂದ ಪಡೆಯುವುದು, ಜೋರಿಗೆ ಪಾವತಿ ಮಾಡಿಸುವುದು
Synonyms: blackmail, coercion, force, compulsion, intimidation
Antonyms: voluntary exchange, fair trade, honest dealing, consent
Usage in Sentence: The country’s offer to ease sanctions only if the neighbouring country submits to exclusive control over its oil constitutes extortion.
61. Condemned
Part of speech: Verb (Past tense)
Meaning: To express severe disapproval of something; to pronounce judgment against someone; to declare someone guilty
Tamil Meaning: கண்டனம் செய்த, தண்டனை விதித்த
Malayalam Meaning: അപലപിച്ച, ശിക്ഷിച്ച
Kannada Meaning: ಖಂಡಿಸಿದ, ಆಪತ್ತು ಹೊರಳಿಸಿದ
Synonyms: criticised, denounced, censured, blamed, reproached
Antonyms: praised, approved, endorsed, commended, exonerated
Usage in Sentence: The leader was condemned by the economist for not thinking through the consequences of the new law.
Idiom of the Day: 28 January 2026
In Two Minds
Formal / Neutral
Meaning: To feel uncertain or conflicted between two options, opinions or courses of action.
Explanation of the Idiom:
The idiom ‘in two minds’ captures the quiet tension of indecision, the mental state in which a person is pulled in opposing directions by equally compelling thoughts or emotions. It suggests a divided judgement, where clarity is delayed noy by ignorance but by the presence of valid, competing considerations.
This idiom has its roots in British English and has long been used in literature, journalism and everyday discourse to describe moments of thoughtful hesitation rather than impulsive doubt.
Being ‘in two minds’ often reflects intellectual honesty: the recognition that complex choices rarely offer simple answers.

Example Sentences:
The editor was in two minds about publishing the article, balancing public interest against ethical responsibility.
She remained in two minds, torn between accepting the promotion and preserving her work-life balance.
Voters were in two minds as the election approached, uncertain which candidate truly represented change.
With today’s Editorial Vocabulary Analysis from 28 January 2026, you've learned 60+ powerful English vocabulary words with their meaning, meaning in English, meaning in Tamil, meaning in Kannada, meaning in Malayalam, synonyms, antonyms and example sentences.
Through Veranda RACE’s ‘Idiom of the Day’ series you learned the idiom ‘In Two Minds’ by understanding its meaning, explanation, origin and practical usage.
With example sentences and common use cases, this Idiom of the Day section from Veranda RACE helped you strengthen your vocabulary and use idiomatic expressions effectively in both writing and conversation.
Consistent practice with vocabulary and idiom of the day like these builds every day not just your word bank but also sharpens your comprehension and expression for competitive exams and real-world communication.
Keep reading, keep learning English with Veranda RACE! 💪📖
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Students are encouraged to refer to the original articles on the official newspaper platforms for comprehensive reading.
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My parents suggested me to join Veranda RACE and prepare for Bank Exams. Within 8 months, I've achieved a Bank job in Central Bank of India. I used to attend tests in the computer lab at my offline branch for more than 6 hours. My mentors cleared all my doubts and my faculty motivated me and taught focus strategies to clear the IBPS Clerk Exam.

Thanks to Veranda RACE, I've cracked three Bank Exams - IBPS PO, SBI PO and IBPS Clerk. Coming a village in Tuticorin, Veranda RACE faculty helped me understand the syllabus and topics of Bank Exams. With full focus on Bank exams, I used to prepare daily in the computer lab and library with constant support from my Bank mentors. They cleared all my doubts without any hesitation.

I prepared for Bank Exams in Veranda RACE’s Tambaram branch. They trained me specifically for the ‘Agriculture Insurance Company’ Exam. I’m happy that I could contribute more to the profession of my choice! Thanks to the faculty and mentors of Veranda RACE!

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