Incoherent
mediumNegative tonein-koh-HEER-ent
adjective
Definition
Expressed in an incomprehensible or confusing way; unclear
Memory hook
IN-COHERENT: ideas that DON'T stick together - like a drunk person rambling, nothing makes sense.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“His incoherent speech suggested he was intoxicated.”
“The essay was incoherent and lacked a clear thesis.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“His ______ speech suggested he was intoxicated.”
Show answer
incoherent
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Incoherent is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "unintelligible" or "disjointed" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "coherent".
Related GRE Words
fragmented
Broken or separated into distinct parts; lacking unity
confound
to confuse or perplex; to mix up or thwart
digressive
Departing from the main subject; rambling
discursive
Digressing from subject to subject; rambling
inarticulate
Unable to speak distinctly or express oneself clearly
chaos
Complete disorder and confusion
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