adjective
rhetorical
rih-TOR-ih-kul/rɪˈtɔːrɪkl/
Using language to persuade or create a striking effect.
The speaker uses rhetorical questions to draw the audience into her argument.
Etymology
An orator uses language to influence an audience. A rhetorical question serves that persuasive or expressive purpose: its question form makes a point rather than requests an answer.
In context
rhetorical questions. As we know rhetorical questions do not require an answer. The person who is giving the information is then going to give the answer.
More examples
- Repetition gives the final paragraph its rhetorical force.
- The candidate uses rhetorical contrasts to make the choice seem simple.
- Her toast ends with a rhetorical flourish that makes everyone smile.
Forms
rhetorical
rhetoric noun — The art of using language persuasively.
rhetorically adverb — In a way intended to persuade or impress.
Similar words
- persuasive
- Focuses on convincing others rather than creating a striking effect.
- eloquent
- Emphasizes fluent, expressive language rather than a deliberate persuasive technique.