cogent
KOH-jent
/ˈkoʊ.dʒənt/
Clear, logical, and convincingly argued.
Emphasizes intellectual appeal and airtight logical structure rather than emotional pull.
The story behind the word. Cogent comes from the Latin verb 'cogere', formed by joining 'co-' (together) with 'agere' (to drive). Literally, it means 'driving thoughts together' into a single, irresistible line of reasoning that leaves no opening for doubt.
Word relationships
- compelling: Compelling focuses on holding attention or stirring belief, whereas cogent emphasizes strict logical validity.
- unconvincing: Failing to persuade due to weak logic or insufficient evidence.
Commonly confused with
- compelling: Cogent appeals strictly to intellect through sound logic; compelling appeals to both intellect and emotion.
Word family
- cogently (adverb): In a clear, logical, and convincing manner.
- cogency (noun): The quality of being clear, logical, and convincing.
Collocations
- cogent argument
- cogent reasoning
- cogent evidence
- cogent case
Example sentences
- "The researcher presented a cogent case for urban green spaces, linking them directly to lower cortisol levels." Academic essay on public health
- "Her cogent reasoning convinced the tribunal that the contract had been breached in bad faith." Legal commentary
Memory hook
Think of COGENT as 'CO-GENTle' logic that drives all facts TOGETHER seamlessly. Drives facts together logically.
When not to use
Do not use to describe emotional or romantic appeals; use 'compelling' or 'touching' instead.
Fun facts
- The root 'agere' also gives us 'agent', 'act', 'agile', and 'navigate'.
Related words
Explore more words
compelling, coherent, eloquent, succinct, cognizant, unequivocal
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