Example 1:
* The rain poured down relentlessly, soaking the city streets and forcing people to seek shelter.
* Cohesive element: The repetition of the word "rain" links the first and second clauses. The phrase "soaking the city streets" further explains the effect of the rain, creating a logical flow.
Example 2:
* Despite the heavy traffic, Sarah managed to arrive at the meeting on time, thanks to her meticulous planning and efficient driving.
* Cohesive element: The conjunction "despite" sets up a contrast between the traffic and Sarah's arrival. The phrase "thanks to" introduces the reason for her success, creating a cause-and-effect relationship.
Example 3:
* The old house stood on the hill, its windows dark and empty, a silent witness to the town's changing fortunes.
* Cohesive element: The pronoun "its" refers back to "the old house," creating a clear connection. The phrase "a silent witness" personifies the house and adds a metaphorical layer to the description.
What makes a sentence cohesive:
* Pronoun references: Using pronouns (he, she, it, they, etc.) to refer back to previously mentioned nouns.
* Conjunctions and transition words: Words like "but," "and," "because," "therefore," "however," and "although" connect ideas and create a logical flow.
* Parallel structure: Using similar grammatical structures to express related ideas (e.g., "She likes to sing, dance, and play the piano.").
* Repetition: Repeating key words or phrases for emphasis and connection.
* Synonyms and related terms: Using words that have similar meanings to avoid repetition and create a sense of continuity.
In contrast, a non-cohesive sentence would be:
* The rain was heavy. People rushed for shelter. The city streets were wet.
This example lacks clear connections between the sentences, making it feel disjointed and confusing.