What is cogency? Pronunciation and usage in English

cogency means . Learn how to pronounce and use cogency through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of cogency

cogencynoun

/ˈkəʊdʒənsi//ˈkəʊdʒənsi/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "cogency." Here's a breakdown and a few tips:

Pronunciation: /ˈkɒɡ(ən)si/

Let's break it down syllable by syllable:

  • cog: Sounds like "kog" – like the sound of a small stone rolling. The "g" is a hard "g" as in "go."
  • -ency: This is the trickiest part. It’s pronounced something like “uhn-see” but with a slightly lengthened "uhn." Think of it almost like "on-see," but slightly softer and more drawn out.

Putting it together: Kog-uhn-see

Tips for getting it right:

  • Emphasis: The emphasis is on the first syllable ("cog").
  • The "n" sound: Make sure the "n" in "-ency" is clear but not overly emphasized. It’s a subtle sound, almost like a little "uh."
  • Listen to examples: The best way to get it right is to hear it spoken. Here are some resources:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some similar-sounding words to practice with?

Usage and examples with the word cogency in English

Let's break down how to use the word "cogency" in English. It's a more formal and nuanced word than simply "convincing." Here's a breakdown of its meaning, how it's used, and examples:

1. Meaning of Cogency

  • Core Definition: Cogency refers to the quality of being convincing; the power to persuade because of sound reasoning, evidence, or authority. It’s not just about saying something sounds good, but about it feeling right and being supported by strong elements.
  • Emphasis on Reason and Support: Cogency implies a logical argument that's difficult to refute because it's built on solid ground.
  • Related to Authority: Often, cogency is associated with the authority of a respected source – an expert, a well-established fact, or a compelling historical precedent.

2. How to Use it in Sentences

Here’s how you can incorporate "cogency" into your writing and speech, categorized by different contexts:

  • Describing an Argument:

    • "The lawyer presented his case with remarkable cogency, outlining the evidence and legal precedents that supported his client's innocence."
    • "Her report lacked cogency; while the data was present, it wasn't organized into a persuasive argument.”
    • “Despite the complex nature of the issue, the professor imbued his lecture with a powerful cogency that made the information readily understandable.”

  • Describing a Person's Tone or Delivery:

    • “His speech had a genuine cogency – he spoke with an earnestness that resonated with the audience.”
    • "The diplomat’s words carried a clear cogency, stemming from years of experience and profound understanding of the situation."

  • Describing a Belief or Idea:

    • “There's a certain cogency to the argument that we need to prioritize sustainable practices.” (Meaning it feels powerfully correct and supported.)
    • “He assigned a cogency to his belief in the importance of education, citing personal experience and countless studies."

  • Referring to a Situation or Principle:

    • "The principle of fairness possesses a certain cogency that guides our actions."
    • "The silence of the witnesses lent cogency to the defendant’s claim of innocence.” (Meaning the silence created a strong sense of truthfulness)

3. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings)

While "cogency" is precise, here are some alternatives that might fit depending on the context:

  • Conviction
  • Persuasion
  • Forcefulness
  • Validity
  • Soundness
  • Weight
  • Authority

4. Important Note: It's a Relatively Formal Word

"Cogency" isn't something you'd use in casual conversation. It's best suited for writing, academic contexts, or when you want to convey a particularly strong and reasoned argument.

Example combining several elements:

"The historian’s article demonstrated a powerful cogency in its analysis, drawing upon decades of research and meticulously presenting evidence to support the controversial theory – its conclusions were undeniably convincing.”

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of writing are you working on? (e.g., academic essay, creative writing, business report)
  • Can you give me an example sentence where you're considering using "cogency"?

Synonyms for the word cogency

Practice with vocabulary cogency

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The lawyer's argument lacked sufficient _____, failing to convince the jury of his client's innocence.
  2. During the quarterly review, the project manager emphasized the importance of data _____ to ensure accurate reporting.
  3. Despite its innovative approach, the new policy proposal suffered from a lack of logical _____, making it difficult to implement effectively.
  4. To achieve strong stakeholder buy-in, the business case must present its strategic benefits with undeniable _____.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which of the following best describes the cogency of an argument? a) Its emotional appeal to the audience. b) Its ability to be easily understood and logically sound. c) Its brevity and conciseness. d) Its historical accuracy and factual basis.

  2. A highly effective presentation typically demonstrates: a) cogency in its reasoning. b) superfluous details. c) strong visual aids. d) clear and concise language.

  3. To improve the cogency of your research paper, you should focus on: a) presenting your findings in a dramatic narrative. b) ensuring your conclusions directly follow from your evidence. c) expanding your bibliography with loosely related sources. d) refining the logical progression of your arguments.

  4. The speaker's exceptional eloquence captivated the audience, even if his points sometimes lacked substantiation. Which words are synonyms for "eloquence" in this context? a) Articulation b) Fluency c) Expressiveness d) Disjointedness

  5. When preparing a technical report, ensuring clarity in your explanations is paramount. Which of the following are aspects of achieving clarity? a) Using complex jargon excessively. b) Employing precise and unambiguous language. c) Structuring sentences for easy comprehension. d) Including irrelevant background information.

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The argument was presented with such clarity and logical force that it was impossible to refute. (Rewrite using "cogency")
  2. Her proposal for the new marketing strategy was very convincing due to its sound reasoning. (Rewrite using "cogency" or a related word form)
  3. The team struggled to present a united front because their individual ideas did not logically connect. (Rewrite using a suitable replacement word, not "cogency")

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. cogency
  2. validity
  3. coherence
  4. cogency

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) Its ability to be easily understood and logically sound.
  2. a) cogency in its reasoning. c) strong visual aids. d) clear and concise language.
  3. b) ensuring your conclusions directly follow from your evidence. d) refining the logical progression of your arguments.
  4. a) Articulation b) Fluency c) Expressiveness
  5. b) Employing precise and unambiguous language. c) Structuring sentences for easy comprehension.

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The cogency of the argument made it impossible to refute.
  2. Her new marketing strategy proposal was highly cogent due to its sound reasoning.
  3. The team struggled to present a united front due to the lack of cohesion among their individual ideas.

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