cognitive

/ˈkɒɡnɪtɪv/
adjectiveIntermediate
formal

Relating to the mental processes of perception, memory, judgment, and reasoning.

The study focuses on cognitive development in children.

This research examines how children's thinking and learning abilities change as they grow.

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Often used in psychology and cognitive science to describe mental functions.

technical

Involving or based on the use of mental processes rather than physical actions.

Cognitive therapy helps patients reframe negative thoughts.

This type of therapy assists people in changing harmful thought patterns.

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Used in fields like artificial intelligence to describe systems that mimic human reasoning.

Collocations

cognitive skillsabilities related to thinking and learningcognitive therapya type of psychological treatment focusing on thought patternscognitive loadthe amount of mental effort required to complete a task

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

cognitive dissonancephrase
mental discomfort experienced by holding two conflicting beliefs
cognitive biasphrase
a systematic pattern of deviation in judgment

💡Pro Tip

Avoid confusion with 'cognizant'

'Cognitive' refers to mental processes, while 'cognizant' means aware or informed.

Gold Rule

Use in formal contexts

Prefer 'cognitive' in academic or professional discussions about mental processes.

📖Word Origin

From Latin 'cognitivus', meaning 'pertaining to knowing or understanding'.

📝Usage Notes

Commonly used in academic and professional contexts, especially in psychology and cognitive science.

Word Breakdown

cog
to know or think
root
+
-nitive
pertaining to
suffix
English Dictionary