cohesion - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
cohesion Word Meanings
- the action or condition of sticking together
- unity or solidarity among individuals
- the force that holds molecules together
cohesion Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
cohesion Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kəʊˈhiː.ʒən/
US
/koʊˈhiʒ.ən/
cohesion Word Etymology
co- = together, hēsiōn = sticking; Latin → Old French → English. Imagine glue that binds things together, symbolizing unity.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Cohesion is the noun describing the action or condition of sticking together, whether that means the force that holds molecules in a substance, or the sense of unity among members of a group. It covers social cohesion, which means a community or team sticking together through shared values and mutual support, as well as the internal forces in chemistry that make a substance resist breaking apart. Learners often confuse cohesion with coherence or cohesive in everyday use; remember cohesion is about sticking together as a whole, not about logical consistency or the appearance of unity alone. In professional writing, cohesion also signals overall connectedness in a text.
Usage Reminders
- Use cohesion for unity in groups and the binding forces in science. Avoid using cohesion to mean only write well together or be logically consistent. Pair with social/mechanical contexts: social cohesion, molecular cohesion. Remember the noun form; avoid confusing with cohesive (adj). In formal writing, cohesion is about connecting ideas and parts. Learn common collocations: cohesion in a team, cohesion in a substance, cohesion policy.
Common Misconceptions
- Cohesion equals coherence (they are different concepts).
- Cohesion is only about writing style, not group unity or science.
- Cunctuation or glue are the same as cohesion.
- Cohesion describes an individual’s personal skills, not a group dynamic.
- Cohesion is the same as adhesive or glue used physically.
Thinking Differences
English speakers often think of cohesion as the broad sense of unity across a group or in scientific substances, and may overemphasize formality or textual flow when first learning. Learners might default to 'coherence' when discussing a well‑written paragraph, or misapply cohesion to personal traits rather than group binding.
Learning Tips
- memorize common collocations: cohesion in a team, cohesion in a substance, social cohesion
- distinguish cohesion from coherence (coherence = logical flow)
- practice both social and scientific examples
- read and mark linking words that show cohesion
- use the noun with pronouns that emphasize the group or system
- review mistakes where cohesion is mistaken for cohesion-related adjectives
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'cohesion'?
A.A lack of harmony
B.Unity or connection
C.Individualism
D.Confusion
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'cohesion' used correctly?
A.The group lacked cohesion and fell apart.
B.The team demonstrated cohesion in their performance.
C.There was cohesion between the two conflicting parties.
D.Cohesion is the opposite of collaboration.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'cohesion'?
A.Division
B.Disunity
C.Harmony
D.Separation
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'cohesion'?
A.Unity
B.Separation
C.Confusion
D.Clarity
Step 5: Mastery
How does 'cohesion' apply in a real-world office setting?
A.Cohesion in the workplace results in a toxic environment.
B.Having cohesion at work causes conflicts among employees.
C.Healthy cohesion among team members leads to better productivity.
D.Lack of cohesion is beneficial for teamwork.
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