cogent

Cogent is an adjective used to describe arguments, reasons, or evidence that are clear, logical, and convincing. A cogent case presents well-supported claims and draws conclusions that follow from the premises with force and coherence. The term emphasizes persuasiveness grounded in sound reasoning, rather than merely emotional appeal.

The word derives from Latin cogentem, from cogere “to drive together, compel,” via the present participle cogens, and was adopted into English in the early modern period. The related noun form is cogency, and the adverb is cogently.

Cogent is commonly used in formal or scholarly writing. It is often contrasted with coherent, which refers to logical connectedness, and with persuasive in a broader sense that may rely on rhetoric rather than rigorous argument. A cogent argument not only appears logically sound but also persuades through its quality of reasoning and evidence. The adjective is typically applied to arguments, theories, or explanations rather than people, though one might describe explanations or reasons as cogent.

In usage, cogent signals a high standard of argumentation: the claims are well supported, the reasoning is rigorous, and the overall presentation is convincing. It is less about style or eloquence and more about the strength and relevance of the underlying evidence and logic.

See also: logic, argumentation, reasoning, persuasion, coherence.