lack cohesion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lack cohesion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that does not have a unified or connected quality, often in the context of writing, arguments, or groups. Example: "The essay was difficult to follow because it lacked cohesion, with ideas jumping from one topic to another without clear transitions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Perhaps the individual sequences lack cohesion, but it would be snippy to take issue with a show that has its heart, conscience and imagination in the right place.

The Guardian

The Mavericks still feature five of their top six scorers from the 2006 finals (Nowitzki, Howard, Jason Terry, Jerry Stackhouse and Erick Dampier), but they lack cohesion.

The New York Times - Sports

Not engaging with decision-makers has led to a proliferation of frameworks and methods that lack cohesion, which is limiting scientific progress47.

Nature

Though they share many cultural traits, the tribes have maintained a high degree of isolation and lack cohesion as a single people.

Britannica

The worry that the governing council would lack cohesion has been replaced by unease that it lacks variety in opinion and experience.

The Economist

Internazionale have augmented their squad with more depth and individual talent, but with just days to go until the start of the new league season, they still lack cohesion.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Algeria lacks cohesion.

The New York Times

"We lacked cohesion," admitted Piturca.

The Guardian - Sport

The opposition, in contrast, lacks cohesion and organization.

Yale University

Too bad the book lacks cohesion, original thought and passion.

The New York Times - Books

This one was no exception, lacking cohesion and flavor.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts or complex systems, use "lack cohesion" to highlight the absence of a unifying principle or structure. This term emphasizes that the parts do not work well together as a whole.

Common error

Avoid using "lack cohesion" when simpler terms like "disorganized" or "unconnected" would suffice. The phrase is most effective when referring to a deeper, more systemic absence of unity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack cohesion" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "lack" is the verb and "cohesion" is the noun acting as the direct object. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "lack cohesion" is a grammatically sound expression used to describe a deficiency in unity or connection. As Ludwig AI confirms, its most frequent use cases appear in News & Media and Science contexts, where it serves to critically evaluate structures, arguments, or teams. While synonyms such as ""lack unity"" or ""lack coherence"" exist, "lack cohesion" specifically emphasizes the absence of elements working together to form a unified whole. Therefore, while "lack cohesion" is valid English, writers should consider simpler, more direct alternatives when the situation doesn't require the nuance of a systemic absence of unity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack unity

Focuses specifically on the absence of a unified quality or state.

lack coherence

Emphasizes the absence of logical connection and clarity.

lack integration

Highlights the absence of combined or coordinated elements.

lack connection

Stresses the absence of links or relationships between elements.

lack organization

Points out the absence of systematic arrangement or structure.

be disjointed

Indicates a separation or lack of smooth flow between parts.

be fragmented

Highlights the presence of broken or disconnected pieces.

fall apart

Suggests a disintegration or failure to maintain unity.

lack alignment

Emphasizes the absence of coordination towards a goal.

lack solidarity

Indicates a deficiency of agreement or sympathy within a group.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "lacks cohesion"?

When something "lacks cohesion", it means it does not have a unified or connected quality. The individual parts do not form a whole, or they do not work well together.

How can I use "lack cohesion" in a sentence?

You might say, "The team "lacked cohesion", leading to poor performance" or "The essay "lacked cohesion" because the arguments were not clearly connected."

What are some synonyms for "lack cohesion"?

Some synonyms for "lack cohesion" include "lack unity", "lack coherence", and "be disjointed".

What is the difference between "lack cohesion" and "lack unity"?

"Lack cohesion" implies a failure of elements to stick together or form a whole, while ""lack unity"" suggests an absence of agreement or shared purpose. While similar, "lack cohesion" often refers to structural or organizational issues.