The grammatical and lexical linkages that exist inside a text to make it coherent and understandable are referred to as cohesion in the context of the English language. It entails the application of language strategies to establish connections between various textual elements and provide coherence and flow. Cohesion makes it easier for listeners or readers to follow the ideas in a written work or speech and to comprehend the connections between different parts.
A number of linguistic strategies support cohesiveness, such as:
Citation: This is referring to previously discussed textual elements with the use of demonstratives, pronouns, or other terms. For instance, “John misplaced his keys. He looked everywhere for them.”
Ellipsis: When words are left out because the context makes them clear, this happens. Say, “I like coffee; Susan, tea.”
Conjunctions: Terms such as “and,” “but,” “however,” and “therefore” link concepts and show their connections.
Lexical cohesion is the process of giving a text a sense of consistency by utilising terms with similar meanings. For instance, “The cat was soundly dozing off. It slept soundly, purring.”
Substitution: In order to prevent repetition, a term is swapped out for one that is related. Say, “I met Mary yesterday.” She was really considerate.”
Writers and speakers can improve the coherence and clarity of their communication by utilising these cohesive devices, which will make it simpler for the audience to follow and comprehend the intended message.