Persuasive Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/pərˈsuːsɪv/🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

Capable of persuading or convincing others; having a strong and effective argument or reasoning.

Examples

• The persuasive speech by the CEO convinced the investors to support the project.
• Her persuasive writing skills helped her to win the essay competition.

Synonyms

• Convincing
• Compelling

Antonyms

• Unconvincing
• Lackluster

Additional Information

Persuasive language is a key component of effective communication. It involves using rhetorical devices, such as metaphors, similes, and allusions, to create a convincing argument. A persuasive text or speech aims to influence the audience’s attitude, behavior, or beliefs. It requires a deep understanding of the audience’s needs, values, and concerns. A well-crafted persuasive message can lead to a desired outcome, whether it’s to sell a product, promote an idea, or inspire action.

Persuasive techniques can be found in various forms of writing and speech, including advertising, marketing, politics, and education. In advertising, persuasive language is used to create a positive image of a product or service and to encourage consumers to buy. In politics, persuasive speeches and debates are used to sway public opinion and to influence policy decisions. In education, persuasive essays and presentations are used to teach critical thinking and argumentation skills.

In order to create a persuasive message, it’s essential to consider the audience’s perspective and to tailor the message accordingly. This involves using language that resonates with the audience, providing evidence and facts to support the argument, and anticipating counterarguments. A persuasive message should also be clear, concise, and engaging, with a strong call to action that encourages the audience to take a specific step.

Etymology

The word “persuasive” comes from the Latin “persuadere,” which means “to persuade” or “to convince.” The Latin word is derived from “per,” meaning “through” or “by means of,” and “suadere,” meaning “to advise” or “to recommend.” The word has been used in English since the 15th century.

Usage Notes

Persuasive can be used as an adjective to describe language, arguments, or messages that are intended to convince or persuade others. It can also be used as a noun to refer to a means of persuasion or a persuasive device.

Cultural References

In the movie “The Lincoln Lawyer,” the protagonist, Mick Haller, is a persuasive defense attorney who uses his rhetorical skills to win cases. In the TV show “The Good Wife,” the character of Alicia Florrick is a persuasive lawyer who often uses her wit and charm to win arguments in the courtroom.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Persuasive language is often used in idiomatic expressions, such as “beating a drum for someone or something,” which means to promote or advocate for someone or something. Other examples include “making a strong case for something,” “building a convincing argument,” and “winning someone over.”

Related Words or Phrases

Related words and phrases to persuasive include convincing, compelling, persuasive power, persuasive writing, and persuasive speech.

Collocations

Persuasive often collocates with words such as “argument,” “message,” “language,” “device,” “technique,” and “speech.”

Frequency of Use

Persuasive is a common word in modern language, often used in formal and informal contexts. It’s frequently used in academic writing, business communication, marketing, and politics.

Common Misspellings

Common misspellings of persuasive include “persuasiv,” “perswasive,” and “persuasave.”