Word: cogent (adjective)

Associations

The word "cogent" means clear, logical, and convincing. It is often used when talking about arguments, reasons, or explanations that are strong and make sense.

• Example 1: She gave a cogent argument for why we should recycle more. (Her argument was clear and convincing.)
• Example 2: The lawyer presented cogent evidence in court. (The evidence was strong and persuasive.)
• Example 3: His cogent explanation helped everyone understand the problem. (The explanation was clear and logical.)

Synonym: persuasive. Difference: "Persuasive" means able to convince, but "cogent" emphasizes that the argument is not only convincing but also clear and well-organized.

Substitution

Instead of "cogent," you can say:

• convincing (focuses on making someone believe)
• clear (focuses on being easy to understand)
• logical (focuses on being reasonable and well thought out)

Changing the word slightly changes the meaning. For example, "convincing" may be emotional, but "cogent" is more about strong logic.

Deconstruction

The word "cogent" comes from Latin "cogere," which means "to drive together" or "to compel." This helps us understand that a "cogent" argument brings ideas together strongly to compel agreement.

No prefix or suffix here; the whole word means powerful and clear in reasoning.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a time when you heard a cogent argument? What made it convincing?
• How do you decide if an explanation is cogent or not?
• Can an argument be persuasive but not cogent? Why or why not?