What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cogent
Example
The lawyer presented a cogent argument that convinced the jury of his client's innocence. [cogent: adjective]
Example
Her cogent analysis of the data helped the team make an informed decision. [cogent: noun]
convincing
Example
The politician gave a convincing speech that won over the crowd. [convincing: adjective]
Example
Her convincing acting skills brought the character to life on stage. [convincing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Convincing is more commonly used than cogent in everyday language. Convincing is a word that can be easily understood and used in different situations, while cogent is more specific and often used in formal or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cogent and convincing?
While cogent is typically associated with a more formal tone, convincing can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a more flexible choice for ESL learners.
