cogent
Adjective
Hard difficulty
What does “cogent” mean?
adjective.clear, logical, and convincing.
SAT Usage
The term is often found in passages discussing arguments, persuasive essays, or debates. It emphasizes the effectiveness of reasoning or evidence in making a point, suggesting not just clarity but also the strength of the argument, distinguishing it from words like "lucid," which focuses more on clarity alone without the connotation of persuasion.
Common Confusions
Cogent implies a clear and persuasive argument with strong reasoning, while lucid usually suggests clarity of expression without the emphasis on the argument's effectiveness or persuasive quality.
Example Sentences
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She presented a cogent argument that persuaded the entire panel.
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Her cogent argument persuaded the committee to change their decision.
Word Parts: How to Remember “cogent”
Break “cogent” into its parts: co- (together, with). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.
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Prefix:
co-together, with (Latin)