Word
cogent
Phoneticsco·gent, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈkoʊdʒənt/
UK/kˈəʊdʒənt/
Definition
adj. describing an argument or explanation that is clear, logical, and convincing. You use this when someone presents their ideas in a way that is easy to follow and makes sense.
adj. characterised by clarity, logical force, and persuasiveness. Often used to describe arguments, evidence, or reasoning that effectively supports a conclusion.
Examples
“She gave a cogent explanation of the new rules.”
“The lawyer presented a cogent argument that convinced the jury of the defendant's innocence.”
“Despite the complexity of the data, the researcher provided a cogent summary that highlighted the key findings without overwhelming the audience with technical jargon.”
Examples
simple
“She gave a cogent explanation of the new rules.”
contextual
“The lawyer presented a cogent argument that convinced the jury of the defendant's innocence.”
complex
“Despite the complexity of the data, the researcher provided a cogent summary that highlighted the key findings without overwhelming the audience with technical jargon.”
Real-World Examples
“Speculation is rife that a gas leak triggered the collapse but officials said there were many “cogent theories” at play.” “As they explore and communicate to the wider world who they are, they incorporate their emerging professional identities into a cogent self-narrative.” Etymology
From French cogent, from Latin cōgēns, present active participle of cōgō (“drive together, compel”), from cō + agō (“drive”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related words
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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