Coaxing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
coaxing
[หkoสksษชล ]
Definition
persuading gently
Coaxing refers to the act of gently persuading someone to do something. This is often done with a soft tone or with careful reasoning rather than force. The goal of coaxing is typically to make the other person feel comfortable or willing to cooperate. It can be used in various contexts, such as coaxing a child to eat their vegetables or encouraging a hesitant friend to join an activity. The effectiveness of coaxing often relies on the relationship between the individuals involved and the approach taken by the person doing the coaxing.
Synonyms
encourage, entice, persuade, sway.
Examples of usage
- She was coaxing her cat to come out from under the bed.
- He coaxed his friend into trying the new restaurant.
- The teacher was coaxing the shy student to participate in the discussion.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Giving praise or using a soothing tone can make coaxing more effective by building trust.
- Coaxing utilizes positive reinforcement, which is known to create a more cooperative environment.
- Understanding a person's motivations is key in coaxing; if they feel appreciated, they're more likely to comply.
Cultural References
- In many cultures, coaxing is often depicted in parenting styles, emphasizing patience and encouragement.
- Popular childrenโs stories often feature characters coaxing others into action, showcasing teamwork and friendship.
Animal Behavior
- Animals, like dogs, often respond to coaxing from humans, such as when they are guided to do tricks.
- Observational studies show that animals will often follow soothing voices which can be a form of coaxing.
Everyday Situations
- In negotiations, coaxing can be a valuable tactic to reach consensus without conflict.
- Commonly seen in sales, coaxing can help persuade customers by highlighting benefits in a friendly manner.
Origin of 'coaxing'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'coax' comes from the early 17th century, derived from 'coaxare,' which means to 'cajole' or 'to beckon.'
- Originally, the term was used in the context of farming, relating to gently guiding animals.
The word 'coax' originates from the early 17th century, derived from the obsolete word 'coaxen' which means to 'manipulate' or 'cajole.' It entered the English language through the alteration of 'cajole,' which is used to imply gentle persuasion or flattery. The roots can be traced back to a combination of influences, including the Middle English term โcoaxen,โ which was likely influenced by the Latin โcajolare,โ meaning 'to chatter' or 'to beg.' Over the centuries, coaxing has shifted in usage to encompass the broader sense of gently coaxing someone into action or agreement. This reflects a cultural inclination towards kindness and gentle persuasion in social interactions.