Persuaded: meaning, definitions and examples

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persuaded

 

[pərˈsweɪdɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

influence

To persuade means to convince someone to do something or to believe something through reasoning or argument.

Synonyms

convince, influence, urge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
persuaded

Typically used when someone is brought to a decision or belief through reasoning or argument. It often implies a more personal or emotional appeal.

  • She finally persuaded him to join the project after several discussions.
  • I was persuaded by her passionate speech.
convince

Used when someone is made to believe or accept something by presenting logical reasons or evidence. It's slightly more formal and logical than 'persuade'.

  • He convinced the jury of his innocence with solid evidence.
  • The data convinced us to change our strategy.
influence

Applies when someone affects another person's thoughts, emotions, or actions indirectly, often through their behavior, example, or charisma. It can be a gradual or subtle impact.

  • Her innovative ideas have greatly influenced our company’s direction.
  • Media has a strong influence on public opinion.
urge

Used when strongly recommending or encouraging someone to take action, often conveying a sense of urgency or importance.

  • The doctor urged her to stop smoking immediately.
  • I urge you to reconsider your decision.

Examples of usage

  • He persuaded me to go to the party with him.
  • She persuaded the committee to change their decision.
  • We were persuaded by his well-reasoned argument.
Context #2 | Verb

influence

To persuade also means to successfully cause someone to do something through reasoning or argument.

Synonyms

convince, influence, urge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
persuaded

This word is useful when someone has been convinced through reasoning or emotional appeal. It often carries a sense of having successfully overcome someone's initial reluctance.

  • She finally persuaded him to join the dance club.
  • After a long discussion, they persuaded the team to try a new approach.
convince

Use this term when you need to make someone believe or accept something through logical reasoning. It's more about changing someone's mind rather than getting them to take action.

  • He managed to convince her that the plan was worth the risk.
  • The data should convince even the most skeptical critics.
influence

This word is suitable when someone is affected or changed indirectly, usually over time. It doesn’t imply direct control or reasoning.

  • Her kindness had a positive influence on the entire class.
  • The weather can greatly influence our mood.
urge

This term is appropriate when you are trying to strongly encourage someone to do something, often immediately. It implies a sense of urgency and sometimes pressure.

  • I urge you to consider the consequences before making a decision.
  • He urged her to apply for the scholarship before the deadline.

Examples of usage

  • The salesman persuaded me to buy the car.
  • The teacher persuaded her students to work harder.
  • She was able to persuade him to change his mind.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'persuadere,' which means 'to convince' or 'to advise.'
  • It originally meant to lead someone over to your side or opinion.
  • The prefix 'per-' means 'through,' and 'suadere' relates to 'to recommend' or 'advise.'

Psychology

  • Cognitive dissonance theory suggests that people seek consistency between their beliefs and actions, which can be used to persuade.
  • The principle of reciprocity indicates that people feel obliged to return favors, making them more likely to be persuaded.
  • Social proof plays a vital role; if people see others agreeing with an idea, they are more inclined to be persuaded themselves.

Communication

  • Persuasion skills are essential in many fields, including marketing, politics, and education.
  • Effective persuasion often involves understanding your audience's values and emotions.
  • There are various techniques, such as storytelling and appealing to logic or emotions, used to enhance persuasion.

Literature

  • In literature, characters often persuade others to achieve their goals, showcasing different methods like manipulation or charm.
  • Famous speeches throughout history often focus on persuading the audience, such as Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'I Have a Dream.'
  • In classic literature, characters' persuasive abilities often lead to significant plot developments or conflicts.

Pop Culture

  • Persuasion is a central theme in many films and books, highlighted in genres like drama and thriller.
  • Popular reality shows often demonstrate persuasion tactics among contestants to gain alliances and win challenges.
  • Influencers on social media use persuasion techniques to connect with their audience and promote products.

Translations

Translations of the word "persuaded" in other languages:

🇵🇹 convencido

🇮🇳 मनाया गया

🇩🇪 überzeugt

🇮🇩 diyakinkan

🇺🇦 переконаний

🇵🇱 przekonany

🇯🇵 説得された

🇫🇷 convaincu

🇪🇸 convencido

🇹🇷 ikna edilmiş

🇰🇷 설득된

🇸🇦 مقتنع

🇨🇿 přesvědčený

🇸🇰 presvedčený

🇨🇳 被说服的

🇸🇮 prepričan

🇮🇸 sannfærður

🇰🇿 сендіру

🇬🇪 დარწმუნებული

🇦🇿 inandırılmış

🇲🇽 convencido

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,645 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.