Meaning trap
put together
synthesize ideas
To combine information, arguments, or perspectives from various sources to create a coherent and persuasive whole, especially in writing, presentations, or discussions.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
To combine information, arguments, or perspectives from various sources to create a coherent and persuasive whole, especially in writing, presentations, or discussions.
'put together' also has the more basic meaning 'assemble'; this is the advanced sense.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
She put together a compelling argument by drawing on research from several disciplines.
In order to achieve a high band score, candidates must put together a well-structured essay that synthesizes information from multiple sources.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: She put together them into a strong case.
Say: She put them together into a strong case.
With a pronoun, split the verb: 'put them together', not 'put together them'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Put together' naturally describes combining ideas into a whole; 'synthesise perspectives' is academic.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
put together + ideas
- the arguments
- a case
- the evidence
- different views
Don't confuse it
Related
Other meanings and phrases to compare.
- put together (assemble) — 'put together' also has the more basic meaning 'assemble'; this is the advanced sense.