Synonyms for

Rhetorical

Verb / rɪˈtɔ:rɪkʌl / Another word for rhetorical — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

relating to speech or writing that is used to persuade people

Synonyms & similar words

unrhetorical persuasive eloquent oratorical articulate expressive fluent forceful impressive rhetoric verbal wordy bombastic grandiloquent loquacious verbose windy cogent compelling convincing effective

Synonyms by register

Formal

eloquent persuasive argumentative discursive

Informal

fancy-sounding talky wordy

Literary

oratorical grandiloquent

Antonyms

literal actual factual real plain direct unembellished

Common collocations

  • rhetorical question
  • rhetorical device
  • rhetorical flourish
  • rhetorical effect
  • rhetorical power
  • rhetorical strategy
  • rhetorical analysis

Word family

noun rhetoric
adverb rhetorically

Usage note

Often used to describe questions asked for effect rather than to elicit an answer. Can sometimes imply insincerity or mere showmanship.

Example sentences

  1. The teacher used rhetorical questions to get the students thinking.
  2. The advertisement was full of rhetorical devices to sell the product.
  3. The politician gave a rhetorical speech to persuade the audience.
  4. The author's writing was so rhetorical that it was hard to understand.
  5. The lawyer used a lot of rhetorical language in the courtroom.

Quotes

  • Words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind. - Rudyard Kipling
  • The pen is mightier than the sword. - Edward Bulwer-Lytton
  • The difference between the right word and the almost right word is the difference between lightning and a lightning bug. - Mark Twain

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