WordGarden.iocoherent
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /kəʊhˈiərənt/
US
- /koʊˈhɪrənt/
Meanings
Adjective
logical, consistent, and easy to understand
forming a unified whole whose parts fit together
able to think or speak clearly
More meaningsFewer meanings
having waves with a fixed phase relationship
Beyond the definition
Imagine building with LEGOs. A coherent structure has all the pieces fitting together nicely – it makes sense as a whole! If someone's argument is coherent, their ideas flow logically and are easy to follow. It's about things sticking together in a sensible way. You might describe a well-written essay or a clear explanation as coherent. A rambling, confusing story? Definitely not coherent. Think of it like a smooth conversation versus one that jumps all over the place – coherence is key for effective communication!
The word "coherent" describes something that is logical, consistent, and easy to understand. It comes from the Latin word "cohaerere," meaning "to stick together." Just as physical objects need to be firmly connected to remain stable, ideas need to be logically linked to be coherent.
You'll often use it when describing thoughts, arguments, or stories. A coherent argument presents evidence in a clear and organized way, making its point convincingly. A coherent story has a plot that unfolds smoothly, with characters acting in believable ways. If someone is speaking incoherently, their words might be jumbled, rambling, or difficult to follow – perhaps due to confusion, illness, or simply disorganized thinking.
Coherence isn't just about clarity; it's also about internal consistency. A person who changes their mind constantly and contradicts themselves lacks coherence in their beliefs. A coherent plan has all the necessary steps laid out in a logical order.
So, if something is coherent, it holds together well – whether it's an idea, a story, or a person's actions. It's about making sense, being consistent, and presenting information in a way that others can easily grasp.
Examples
- 1
Academic writing
The report presents a coherent argument from beginning to end.
- 2
Plot
The movie has some strong scenes, but the plot never becomes coherent.
- 3
Public planning
We need a coherent plan for housing, transport, and public services.
- 4
Speech
After two nights without sleep, she was too tired to sound coherent.
- Phrasesound coherent
speak in a clear, logical way
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Music style
The album mixes electronic and folk influences, yet it still feels coherent.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- coherent argument
- coherent explanation
- coherent narrative
- coherent strategy
Word family
Explore
- internal consistency
- clarity
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- coherentadjective