adjective

coherent

/koʊˈhɪrənt/ · say it: koh·HIER·ənt

logical and consistent; clearly connected

In Sophisticated Everyday

In more detail

1. (adjective) logical and easy to understand; making sense

2. (adjective) having parts that fit together well and form a unified whole

Examples

1. She gave a coherent explanation of the difficult concept.
2. The painting has a coherent design with all elements working together.

How to use coherent

Coherent describes something that holds together logically and is easy to follow, emphasizing both clarity and internal unity. It is used for writing, speech, ideas, and plans. Unlike merely 'clear,' coherent stresses that all parts work together meaningfully rather than existing in isolation.

Common phrases

coherent argument
coherent narrative
coherent strategy
coherent whole
coherent explanation
perfectly coherent

Synonyms

logical · consistent · clear · unified · cohesive

Opposites

incoherent · disjointed · muddled

Word family

coherence (noun) · coherently (adverb) · incoherent (adjective) · incoherence (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse coherent with cohesive; coherent focuses on logical sense-making, while cohesive emphasizes the binding together of elements.

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