cogent

/ˈkə͡ʊd͡ʒn̩t/

Group 3Difficulty 2/3

Definition

(adjective)
Clear, logical, and convincing
GRE

Example in Context

The lawyer presented a cogent argument that persuaded even skeptical jurors of the defendant's innocence.

Synonyms

convincinglogicalcompelling

Etymology

Driving together clear ideas that are convincing and logical.

  • cogere (Latin) — to drive together

Memory Aid

🤝Sounds like “co-agent

Imagine a super-smart CO-AGENT convincing everyone with their irresistible logic!

Visual Association

🧠A brilliant detective laying out a clear, convincing argument to a baffled jury.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “cogent” mean on the GRE?

cogent (adjective) means “Clear, logical, and convincing”. The lawyer presented a cogent argument that persuaded even skeptical jurors of the defendant's innocence.

How to remember “cogent” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “cogent” sounds like “co-agent”. Imagine a super-smart CO-AGENT convincing everyone with their irresistible logic!

What are synonyms for “cogent”?

Common synonyms: convincing, logical, compelling.