cohesive - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
cohesive Word Meanings
- connected and unified
- able to stick together
- showing clear structure or organization
cohesive Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
cohesive Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kəʊˈhiːsɪv/
US
/koʊˈhiːsɪv/
cohesive Word Etymology
cohesive: co- (together) + haerere (to stick). Originated from Latin (cohaesus) passed through Old French before entering English. Imagine a group of people holding hands tightly, forming an unbreakable circle, symbolizing strong unity and connection.
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
Cohesive describes something that sticks together as a unified whole, whether it’s a team, a written argument, a design, or a system. It implies interdependence, shared purpose, and clear structure. A cohesive group works smoothly because members align goals and support one another, while a cohesive paragraph flows with logical progression and strong transitions. In everyday speech, cohesive is often used about materials, organisms, communities, or organizations that maintain unity under pressure. For learners, note the metaphorical sense of cohesion in thinking and planning, not just physical sticking.
Usage Reminders
- Describe a group or system that functions as a single unit.
- Prefer cohesive when talking about unity, coherence, and stability.
- Contrast cohesive with words meaning loose or fragmented.
- Use cohesive with nouns like team, essay, design, or narrative.
- Avoid overusing cohesive for things that are just connected but not strongly united.
Common Misconceptions
- Cohesive is only about physical sticking, not about ideas or teams.
- Cohesive means simply stuck together without any sense of unity.
- Cohesive and cohesive are the same word used in different contexts.
- Cohesive cannot describe writing or arguments.
- Cohesive is a formal or rare word used only in academic contexts.
Thinking Differences
English tends to treat cohesive as both a concrete property (a cohesive material) and a metaphor for clear unity in groups or writing; learners often assume it only refers to physical sticking or only to writing.
Learning Tips
- Notice how cohesive emphasizes unity and flow, not just connection.
- Practice by rewriting a paragraph to improve transitions.
- Use cohesive with nouns that imply structure: team, essay, design, narrative.
- Learn common connectors (therefore, consequently, as a result) that aid cohesion.
- Distinguish between physical adhesion and abstract coherence in examples.
- Read native texts and underline how ideas link together.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'cohesive' mean?
A.Being very large in size
B.Holding together in unity
C.Moving away from the center
D.Having no clear purpose
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'cohesive' correctly?
A.The students formed a cohesive bond during the group project.
B.The massive elephant was a cohesive sight at the zoo.
C.He decided to cook a cohesive meal of various dishes.
D.Her dress was cohesive blue.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'cohesive'?
A.Unified
B.Diverse
C.Random
D.Separated
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of the word 'cohesive'?
A.Connected
B.Complete
C.Fragmented
D.Combined
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where something is cohesive?
A.In a well-functioning team, each member's strengths contribute to a cohesive effort.
B.Different cultures can often lead to misunderstandings.
C.Sometimes, music can sound chaotic without a clear structure.
D.The building's design was completely unrelated to its purpose.
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