coalesce

What does “coalesce” mean?

verb.to come together to form one mass or whole.

SAT Usage

This term often appears in passages discussing scientific concepts, social movements, or collaborative efforts. It emphasizes the process of merging distinct elements into a unified entity, suggesting not just physical coming together but also the blending of ideas or cultures, which distinguishes it from similar words like "gather" that imply a more superficial collection without the connotation of integration.

Common Confusions

Coalesce implies a deep integration of distinct elements into a unified whole, while gather usually suggests a mere collection of items or individuals without the implication of merging or blending.

Example Sentences

• The droplets coalesced into a puddle.

• The puddle coalesced from the droplets as they ran together.

• Over time, the separate groups can coalesce into a single coalition.

Word Parts: How to Remember “coalesce”

Break “coalesce” into its parts: co- (together, with). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.

• Prefix: co- together, with (Latin)