incoherence
What does "incoherence" mean?
Incoherence refers to a state of being unclear, illogical, or disorganized, making it difficult for others to understand what you are trying to express. Imagine a tangled ball of yarn or a jigsaw puzzle where the pieces don't fit together; in the same way, incoherent speech or writing lacks the necessary structure or connection to form a meaningful whole. While often used to describe someone who is physically or mentally unable to speak clearly due to shock, illness, or intoxication, it can also describe abstract concepts like disorganized policies or rambling arguments. It carries a slightly formal, critical tone, implying that the lack of clarity is a significant failure in communication.
"incoherence" in conversation
A frustrated student after a lecture
Did you understand any of that professor's lecture?
Did you understand any of that professor's lecture?
Not at all, it was pure incoherence from start to finish.
Not at all, it was pure incoherence from start to finish.
Used to describe a disorganized presentation.
A writer reviewing a draft
My editor says this chapter is full of incoherence.
My editor says this chapter is full of incoherence.
Maybe you should try outlining your main points before you write again.
Maybe you should try outlining your main points before you write again.
Used to describe a failure in logical writing structure.
"incoherence" in a sentence
The witness spoke with such incoherence that the jury could not understand her story.
The witness spoke with such incoherence that the jury could not understand her story.
His argument was marred by incoherence and a lack of supporting evidence.
His argument was marred by incoherence and a lack of supporting evidence.
The policy document was criticized for the incoherence between its stated goals and its actual implementation.
The policy document was criticized for the incoherence between its stated goals and its actual implementation.
