Untangling the Thread: Understanding Coherence and Cohesive Devices in English Texts

3.1 Coherence in my understanding refers to the logical and well-structured connection of ideas in a text. It is the seamless flow of conversation or writing that allows readers or listeners to understand the message being portrayed without difficulty. In a coherent text, each sentence or idea connects or follows from the preceding one, thereby creating cohesive links that contribute to the overall sense of unity in the text. 3.2.1 In the given sentence, "but" is the underlined cohesive device. This is a coordinating conjunction used to introduce a contrasting element or idea. In this context, it shows the surprising or unexpected reality that the animosity between the two actors could progress to something as extreme as killing. 3.2.2 The cohesive device underlined in this sentence is "hence." This is a conjunctive adverb used to show cause and effect. It informs the reader that the heavy sentence given by the judge is a direct result or consequence of the abominable act of human trafficking. 3.3.3 "It was raining, therefore, we decided to stay at home." In this sentence, "therefore" is the underlined cohesive device used. 3.3.4 "Therefore" is a cohesive device which is formally known as a conjunctive adverb. This particular device is used to demonstrate the cause and effect relationship between two ideas or actions. In this sentence, the effect (decision to stay at home) is a direct result of the cause (it was raining). It helps in linking the two ideas in a logical and coherent manner.