Synonyms for

Rhetoric

Verb / ˈretɜ:ɪk / Another word for rhetoric — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

the art of using language effectively and persuasively

Synonyms & similar words

grandiloquence emptywords magniloquence palaver hotair grandiosity emptytalk ornateness oratory eloquence articulation expression verbiage diction phrasing language persuasion bombast grandiloquence hyperbole magniloquence wording speech address discourse harangue

Synonyms by register

Formal

oratory eloquence discourse persuasion

Informal

talk spiel hot air bluster

Literary

poesy bardic speech

Antonyms

silence plainness directness honesty truth simplicity earnestness

Common collocations

  • political rhetoric
  • empty rhetoric
  • powerful rhetoric
  • public rhetoric
  • rhetoric and composition
  • rhetoric of science
  • sophistic rhetoric

Word family

noun rhetoric
adjective rhetorical

Usage note

Often used negatively to imply insincere or exaggerated language, especially in politics. Can also refer to the art of effective speaking or writing.

Example sentences

  1. The teacher taught us about the art of rhetoric.
  2. The politician's rhetoric won over many voters.
  3. His speech was full of persuasive rhetoric.
  4. She used rhetorical devices to make her argument more convincing.
  5. The author's use of rhetoric was very effective in conveying his message.

Quotes

  • The function of rhetoric is to teach us how to use language to solve problems and resolve conflicts. - Jay Heinrichs
  • The rhetoric of power is always unanswerable. - Mary McCarthy
  • In rhetoric, a figure is a turn of phrase. - Andrew Kennedy Hutchison Boyd

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