a cogent answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a cogent answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a response that is clear, logical, and convincing, often in discussions or debates. Example: "During the meeting, she provided a cogent answer to the complex question posed by the board."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

But at least by backing a stimulus now he has a cogent answer to the immediate problem of the stuttering recovery).Mr Boehner is from the more sensible end of his party.

The Economist

When asked by the New York Times in December why she wanted to run for the Senate, she was not able to provide a cogent answer.

Huffington Post

Asked why he won't just accept the money that would flow into Florida via Medicaid instead of trying to twist a non-Obamacare program into something it's not, he didn't have a cogent answer.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Maybe you were asked a tough question during an investor pitch and were surprised when you delivered a clear, cogent answer.

TechCrunch

While we suspect the answer is related to something in their genes or their environment, we cannot offer them a cogent reply.

The New York Times

"First Great Triumph" is Warren Zimmermann's readable and cogent answer to that question.

The New York Times - Books

Usually, the same questioner then shrieks the same question because the witness has given no cogent answer, but is, instead, sitting at the witness table with the expression of someone who just emerged from a long coma.

Huffington Post

Lee was capable of understanding investigators' questions and giving cogent answers, the New York Times reported, citing an unnamed source who had been informed of the substance of the state's interview with Harper Lee.

The Guardian - Books

"Good writers deserve to be remembered," Wolff was told by William Maxwell, who of New Yorker personnel receives the biographer's best review, for editing O'Hara for years without undue contention and for responding to Wolff's inquiries by typing his cogent answers on the spot.

The New Yorker

Cogent answers don't exist in outrage or rants.

Huffington Post

Richard Maltby Jr., the director, provides a cogent production.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a cogent answer" when you want to emphasize that a response is not only correct but also logically sound and persuasive.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a "cogent answer" needs to be overly complex. Cogency refers to the clarity and logical structure of the response, not its length or sophistication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cogent answer" functions as a noun phrase, where "cogent" modifies the noun "answer". It describes a specific quality of the answer, indicating that it is clear, logical, and persuasive. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with various examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a cogent answer" describes a response that is clear, logical, and persuasive. While Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable, its frequency is relatively uncommon. It appears most often in news, media, scientific, and formal business contexts, emphasizing its suitability for conveying well-reasoned and understandable information. When writing, remember that cogency emphasizes clarity and logical structure, not necessarily complexity. Alternatives such as ""a convincing explanation"" or ""a compelling response"" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a convincing explanation

Replaces 'answer' with 'explanation' emphasizing the clarity and persuasiveness of the reasoning.

a compelling response

Substitutes 'cogent' with 'compelling', highlighting the engaging and persuasive nature of the reply.

a persuasive reply

Similar to "compelling response", focuses on the ability of the answer to convince someone.

a logical explanation

Emphasizes the structure and reasoning behind the answer rather than its persuasive power.

a clear and rational response

Expands on "cogent" by explicitly stating the qualities of clarity and rationality.

a sound argument

Shifts the focus from the answer itself to the underlying reasoning and validity.

a well-reasoned explanation

Similar to "logical explanation", emphasizing the quality of the reasoning process.

a valid point

Replaces the whole expression, focusing on soundness and effectiveness of the idea.

a sensible solution

Moves the emphasis from explanation to the practical application of an idea.

an articulate response

Focuses more on the eloquence and clarity of expression in the answer.

FAQs

How can I use "a cogent answer" in a sentence?

You can use "a cogent answer" to describe a response that is clear, logical, and persuasive. For example: "The lawyer provided "a cogent answer" to the judge's question".

What is another way to say "a cogent answer"?

Alternatives to "a cogent answer" include "a convincing explanation", "a compelling response", or "a persuasive reply".

What does "cogent" mean in the context of an answer?

In the context of an answer, "cogent" means clear, logical, and convincing. It implies that the answer is well-reasoned and easy to understand.

Is it better to give a "cogent answer" or simply a correct answer?

A "cogent answer" is preferable because it not only provides the correct information but also explains it in a clear and logical way, making it more persuasive and understandable than a simple correct answer.