A cogent reason, argument, or example is strong and convincing.
[formal]
There were perfectly cogent reasons why Julian Cavendish should be told of the Major'simpending return.
Synonyms: convincing, strong, powerful, effective More Synonyms of cogent
cogencyuncountable noun
The film makes its points with cogency and force.
Synonyms: conviction, force, power, strength More Synonyms of cogent
cogentlygraded adverb [ADVERB with verb]
The authors argue cogently that it is high time the church lost its obsession withthe subject.
cogent in British English
(ˈkəʊdʒənt)
adjective
compelling belief or assent; forcefully convincing
Derived forms
cogency (ˈcogency) or cogence (ˈcogence)
noun
cogently (ˈcogently)
adverb
Word origin
C17: from Latin cōgent-, cōgēns, driving together, from cōgere, from co- together + agere to drive
cogent in American English
(ˈkoʊdʒənt)
adjective
forceful and to the point, as a reason or argument; compelling; convincing
SIMILAR WORDS: ˈvalid
Derived forms
cogently (ˈcogently)
adverb
Word origin
L cogens, prp. of cogere, to collect < co-, together + agere, to drive: see act1
Examples of 'cogent' in a sentence
cogent
Well that's a cogent argument.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
There were cogent artistic reasons why his work looked as it did.
The Times Literary Supplement (2008)
We have reasonable prospects and a cogent case to make.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
But we have put forward a cogent case.
Times, Sunday Times (2015)
For all kinds of cogent reasons.
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
It is a cogent argument, and one that may finally be having an impact upon those at the top.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
Typically, his argument was cogent, well put and very persuasive.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
Familiar - if more cogent - arguments go on.
The Times Literary Supplement (2010)
There would have to be cogent evidence to justify the imposition of a requirement for plain packaging, which would have the effect of destroying such rights.
Times, Sunday Times (2009)
We'd be glad to hear it and any cogent arguments you might have for becoming the tie's curator.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
(adjective)
Definition
forcefully convincing
He makes a cogent argument for a more egalitarian education system.
Synonyms
convincing
Scientists say there is no convincing evidence for this theory.
strong
The evidence that such investment promotes growth is strong.
powerful
a powerful drama about a corrupt city leader
effective
You can't make an effective argument if all you do is stridently voice your opinion.
compelling
He puts forward a compelling argument against the policy.
urgent
influential
one of the most influential books ever written
potent
a potent electoral message
irresistible
It proved an irresistible temptation to go back.
compulsive
an almost compulsive desire to play tricks
forceful
This is a forceful argument for joining them.
conclusive
There is no conclusive evidence that a murder took place.
weighty
forcible
He is a forcible advocate for the arts.
Additional synonyms
in the sense of compelling
Definition
convincing
He puts forward a compelling argument against the policy.
Synonyms
convincing,
telling,
powerful,
forceful,
conclusive,
weighty,
cogent,
irrefutable
in the sense of compulsive
Definition
irresistible or absorbing
an almost compulsive desire to play tricks
Synonyms
irresistible,
overwhelming,
compelling,
urgent,
besetting,
uncontrollable,
driving
in the sense of conclusive
Definition
putting an end to doubt
There is no conclusive evidence that a murder took place.