🎓 Prepared by students from Boğaziçi University

What is Text Coherence and Cohesion?

Text coherence and cohesion are the glue that holds writing together. Coherence refers to how logically and meaningfully a text flows as a whole, while cohesion uses linking words and devices to connect sentences smoothly.

Short answer

Coherence is the overall logical flow and meaning of a text; cohesion is the use of linking words (aussi, cependant, donc) and pronouns to connect ideas between sentences.

How Cohesion Creates Coherence

1
Idea A
State the main point
↓
2
Link (Cohesive device)
Use donc, car, mais, ensuite
↓
3
Idea B
Add a related or contrasting point
↓
4
Flow (Coherence)
Reader understands the connection

Step-by-step worked examples

Two sentences: 'Marie aime lire.' 'Elle emprunte des livres chaque semaine.' How are they cohesive?

The pronoun 'Elle' refers back to 'Marie' (cohesive device).
The topic (reading) is consistent (coherence).
Together they form a clear, related sequence.

Make these coherent: 'Il pleut.' 'Je reste à la maison.'

Add a cohesive link: 'Il pleut, donc je reste à la maison.'
'donc' (therefore) shows the cause-effect relation.
Now the reader sees the logical connection.

Why is this incoherent: 'J'aime le français. Les girafes sont grandes. J'habite à Paris.'?

No cohesive devices link the sentences.
The three ideas jump randomly (food, animals, location).
There's no overarching topic or logical progression.

Flashcards

Quick quiz

Q1.Which device makes sentences cohesive?

Correct answer: A. Cohesion is created by linking words, pronouns, and repetition to connect ideas.

Q2.A text with poor coherence has…

Correct answer: B. Coherence is about logical flow; even with linking words, random ideas = poor coherence.

Q3.Which pronoun is a cohesive device?

Correct answer: B. 'elle' refers to a previously mentioned person — it links sentences and creates cohesion.

Q4.Coherence without cohesion means…

Correct answer: A. A text can be logically sound but not explicitly link every sentence.

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Common mistakes

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Thinking cohesion and coherence are the same thing. — Correct: Cohesion is the mechanic (linking devices); coherence is the result (logical flow).

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Believing every sentence needs a linking word. — Correct: Some links are implicit; too many explicit linkers feel forced.

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Ignoring pronouns as cohesive devices. — Correct: Pronouns (il, elle, on, cela) create strong cohesion by reducing repetition.

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Assuming a text is coherent just because it's well-written. — Correct: Coherence requires logical progression of ideas, not just grammar or style.

FAQ

What is the difference between coherence and cohesion?

Coherence is the overall logical flow and meaning; cohesion is the linking devices (donc, elle, etc.) that physically connect sentences.

What are examples of cohesive devices in French?

Linking words (donc, car, mais, ensuite, cependant), pronouns (il, elle, cela), synonyms, and repetition.

Can a text be cohesive but incoherent?

Yes — sentences can be linked by words but still jump between unrelated ideas without logical progression.

Why is coherence important in writing?

Coherent text is easier to understand and persuades readers; it shows clear thinking and logical argument.