Cajolingly: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'cajole' comes from the French word 'cajoler', meaning to chat or to coax someone.
• Its origins can be traced back to the late 18th century, emerging as an influential part of English vocabulary.
• The suffix '-ingly' is used to form adverbs, adding the sense of 'in a manner that...' to the root verb.

Psychology

• Cajoling often involves understanding psychological triggers, appealing to emotions such as guilt or affection.
• It can be effective in building rapport and making requests feel more friendly and less demanding.
• Studies suggest that people are often more responsive to gentle persuasiveness than aggressive demands.

Communication

• Using a cajoling tone can soften criticism, making it more likely for the listener to accept feedback positively.
• A combination of humor and kindness often enhances the effectiveness of cajoling in conversations.
• Nonverbal cues like smiles and eye contact during cajoling can significantly increase its success rate.

Literature

• Cajoling characters are often found in literature, where they persuade others through charm, highlighting the contrast between coercion and gentle persuasion.
• Notable examples include characters who use cajoling to navigate complex social situations, often leading to dramatic turnarounds in the plot.
• Many fables and folk tales feature characters whose cajoling ultimately teaches a moral lesson about kindness or humility.

Pop Culture

• In films and TV shows, the caressing ability of a cajoling character often leads to comedic or heartfelt moments.
• Popular media portrays cajoling as an essential tool for characters trying to win favor, often occluded by more forceful approaches.
• Catchphrases from charismatic characters often stem from expoiting the art of cajoling to engage audiences.