Synonyms for

Persuasive

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

Definition

able to convince someone to do or believe something

Synonyms & similar words

dissuasive convincing compelling effective influential eloquent forceful potent powerful strong telling compelling conclusive decisive indisputable irresistible plausible credible believable persuadable suasive

Synonyms by register

Formal

cogent compelling convincing authoritative

Informal

strong good solid believable

Literary

eloquent potent telling

Antonyms

unconvincing unpersuasive weak ineffective impotent powerless

Common collocations

  • persuasive argument
  • persuasive speech
  • persuasive case
  • persuasive writing
  • persuasive technique
  • persuasive appeal
  • highly persuasive

Word family

noun persuasion
verb persuade
adverb persuasively

Usage note

While 'persuasive' and 'convincing' are often used interchangeably, 'persuasive' emphasizes the act of influencing, while 'convincing' emphasizes the result of being made to believe.

Example sentences

  1. The persuasive salesman talked me into buying the new vacuum.
  2. The politician gave a persuasive argument for universal healthcare.
  3. Her persuasive essay on climate change convinced her teacher to change his mind.
  4. The lawyer gave a persuasive closing argument that won the case.
  5. The teacher's persuasive lesson convinced the students to try harder.

Quotes

  • A good speech has a beginning, a middle, and an end, the best example being, 'I love you.' -Robert Brault
  • Persuasion is often more effectual than force. -Aesop
  • In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock. -Thomas Jefferson

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