Persuade: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used when trying to get someone to do something by reasoning with them. Often involves a series of arguments or appeal to someone's emotions.

• She managed to persuade him to go to the party.
• I finally persuaded my parents to let me go on the trip.

Used when trying to change someone’s belief or opinion. Focuses on making someone understand or realize something is true or correct.

• He convinced me that he was right about the project.
• They convinced her to apply for the job.

Used when describing the act of affecting someone's behavior, decisions, or thoughts indirectly. Often involves a subtle or gradual change.

• Her speech influenced many people's views on the subject.
• The weather influenced their decision to stay indoors.

Often used to strongly advise or encourage someone to do something. Typically has a sense of urgency or insistence.

• I urge you to reconsider your decision.
• They urged him to seek medical attention immediately.

Used in general situations where one needs to influence someone to do or believe something through reasoning or argument.

• She persuaded him to join the team.
• He managed to persuade the judge of his innocence.

Similar to 'persuade,' but more often related to changing someone's belief or opinion rather than getting them to take an action.

• He convinced her that he was right.
• The evidence was enough to convince everyone.

Often used in more formal or literary contexts, indicating a stronger effort to persuade someone, sometimes involving persistent effort or repeated requests.

• They prevailed upon him to change his mind.
• We prevailed upon our neighbors to join the initiative.

Usually applied in scenarios where someone is gently and patiently trying to get someone to do something, often through flattery or cajoling. It can sometimes imply a subtle, maybe sneaky approach.

• She managed to coax the cat out of the tree.
• He gently coaxed her into going to the party.