What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cognition
Example
Cognition is an essential aspect of human intelligence. [cognition: noun]
Example
The study of cognition explores how people think and process information. [cognition: noun]
comprehension
Example
Good reading comprehension skills are crucial for academic success. [comprehension: noun]
Example
She showed great comprehension of the complex scientific concepts. [comprehension: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Comprehension is more commonly used than cognition in everyday language. It is a term frequently used in education, reading, and language-related contexts. Cognition, on the other hand, is a more technical term used in psychology and cognitive science.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cognition and comprehension?
Both cognition and comprehension can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, cognition is more commonly used in academic and scientific settings, making it slightly more formal in those contexts.