Concoct: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when talking about creating something complex or mixing ingredients, often in a playful or informal manner.

• She managed to concoct a delicious soup from leftovers.
• He concocted an elaborate plan to surprise his friend.

General term for bringing something into existence; can be used in a wide variety of contexts.

• She loves to create art.
• They created a new software application.

Used to talk about coming up with a plan, solution, or method; often used in the context of solving a problem.

• She devised a strategy to increase sales.
• They had to devise a way to reach the summit.

Often used in more formal or scientific contexts, referring to creating systematic plans, ideas, or theories.

• The scientists formulated a new theory on climate change.
• He helped formulate the company's policies.

Used when talking about creating something entirely new, usually referring to physical objects or concepts that didn't exist before.

• Thomas Edison invented the lightbulb.
• She invented a new type of machine to improve factory productivity.

Used when you are talking about planning and making the appearance or structure of something.

• He designed a new logo for the company.
• The architect will design the layout of the new building.

Use to describe creating a story, lie, or excuse. Often implies creativity or imagination without a necessarily negative connotation.

• She concocted an elaborate story to explain her absence

Used for creating falsehoods or lies, often with a negative connotation. Can also mean building or assembling something, particularly in a technical or industrial context.

• He was caught fabricating documents to cover his tracks
• The company fabricates metal parts for cars

Describes creating something new and original, such as a device, idea, or story. Typically positive, especially in the context of innovation or creativity.

• Thomas Edison invented the light bulb
• He invented a story about being late to class

Strongly negative, used when someone intentionally changes documents, records, or information to deceive others.

• They were accused of falsifying the financial statements

Primarily refers to creating fake copies of documents, signatures, or artworks. Strongly negative.

• She forged his signature on the check
• The painting was discovered to be a forgery