B1 formal 3K

Coherent

UK //kəʊˈhɪərənt// US //koʊˈhɪrənt// Pronunciation

Definition

Logical and consistent; easy to follow or understand.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Makes sense and is easy to understand.

Examples

• Her argument was very coherent and easy to follow.
• The paper lacked a coherent structure.
• They presented a coherent plan for the project.

Usage notes

Use 'coherent' when discussing ideas, arguments, or writing that is logical and clear. Avoid informal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'coherent' as 'coherent stories' that stick together and make sense.

Collocations

• coherent argument
• coherent explanation
• coherent narrative
• coherent thought

Synonyms

• logical
• clear
• consistent
• understandable
• rational

Antonyms

• incoherent
• disjointed
• confused

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'coherence' which is a noun.
• Used incorrectly with uncountable nouns, e.g., 'a coherent idea' instead of just 'coherent'.