Synonyms for

Persuade

Verb / pɜ:ˈsweɪd / Another word for persuade — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to convince someone to do or believe something through reasoning or argument

Synonyms & similar words

sway dissuade carry convince coax influence encourage urge sway get induce pressure press cajole entice tempt seduce manipulate brainwash

Synonyms by register

Formal

convince influence sway induce

Informal

talk into win over get someone to

Literary

coax entice wheedle

Antonyms

dissuade deter discourage prevent hinder impede obstruct

Common collocations

  • persuade someone to do something
  • persuade someone of something
  • persuade by argument
  • persuade through flattery
  • try to persuade
  • manage to persuade
  • difficult to persuade

Word family

noun persuasion
verb persuade
adjective persuasive
adverb persuasively

Usage note

Persuade implies convincing someone to do or believe something through reasoning or argument. It is often followed by 'to' + infinitive or 'that' + clause.

Example sentences

  1. I will try to persuade my mom to buy me a puppy.
  2. The teacher tried to persuade the students to study for the exam.
  3. I cannot persuade my brother to share his toys with me.
  4. I persuaded my friend to join the school club.
  5. The politician is trying to persuade people to vote for him.

Quotes

  • The art of persuasion is not in changing peoples' minds based on your beliefs, but in convincing people to believe in themselves for their reasons. - Unknown
  • If you wish to persuade me, you must think my thoughts, feel my feelings, and speak my words. - Cicero
  • The best way to persuade people is with your ears - by listening to them. - Dean Rusk

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