Cajolery - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

persuasion tactic

Cajolery refers to the act of persuading someone to do something through flattery, sweet talk, or deception. It often involves coaxing or attempting to influence someone in a more subtle manner. This approach can often be seen as manipulative or deceitful, as it relies on charm to achieve a goal rather than straightforward communication. Cajolery can be effective in achieving short-term results but may lead to distrust if the true intentions are revealed.

Synonyms

blarney, coaxing, flattery, persuasion, sweet-talking.

Examples of usage

She used cajolery to convince him to help her with the project.
His cajolery worked well when trying to win over the committee.
The salesperson's cajolery made the customers feel special and valued.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Cajolery often involves flattery, which can influence others through positive reinforcement and emotional appeal.
Research shows that people are more likely to comply with requests when approached with charm rather than commands.
The effectiveness of cajolery taps into the emotional side of human interactions, where people often respond better to kindness than to pressure.

Literature

Cajolery is a common theme in literature, where characters often use charm to manipulate others for personal gain.
Classic literature often features cunning characters who employ cajolery as a means to achieve their goals, highlighting moral dilemmas.
Famous literary works display instances of cajolery, showcasing its dual-edged nature: it can be used for both good and bad intentions.

Pop Culture

In movies, charismatic villains often use cajolery to win over allies or deceive enemies, showcasing its manipulative aspect.
Social media influencers frequently employ cajolery in their communications to entice followers into purchasing products.
In various songs and stories, the art of cajolery is celebrated as a strategic yet often humorous way to get what one wants.

Education

Teachers sometimes use cajolery to encourage students, fostering a positive classroom environment through praise and encouragement.
Debate and persuasion studies highlight cajolery as a valuable skill in negotiating and influencing others in academic settings.
Learning about cajolery helps students understand the dynamics of communication and the ethics of persuasion.

Origin of 'cajolery'

Main points about word origin

The term comes from the French verb 'cajoler,' which means to chatter or to coax.
It entered the English language in the early 19th century, maintaining its meanings related to persuasion and charm.
The word’s roots can be traced further back to the Old French word 'cajole,' reflecting a playful yet persuasive tone.

The word 'cajolery' originates from the French term 'cajoler,' which means to chatter or to coax. This term likely derives from the Old French 'cajoleur,' which combines 'cajole,' meaning to persuade with flattery, and the French suffix '-erie,' denoting a practice or process. The use of cajolery in English dates back to around the late 19th century and has been used to describe attempts to persuade others through charm or sweet talk. Over time, the term has gained a slightly negative connotation, often associated with manipulation or dishonesty in persuasion tactics. As societal interactions have evolved, the meaning of cajolery has remained relevant, especially in contexts where influence and persuasion are significant, such as in politics, marketing, and personal relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,844, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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36841 undersold
36842 toddled
36843 individuate
36844 cajolery
36845 vibrantly
36846 ament
36847 ichthyology
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Cajolery Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations