Persuasion: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when motivating someone to believe or do something, especially through reasoning or emotional appeal.

• She used her powers of persuasion to get him to agree.
• Good salespeople rely on persuasion rather than pressure.

Implies the ability to affect someone's thoughts, behaviors, or feelings, often subtly or indirectly.

• He has a lot of influence over the board's decisions.
• The media can greatly influence public opinion.

Refers to making someone believe that something is true or certain, often through credible evidence or logical reasoning.

• Her explanation was so convincing that everyone believed her.
• He gave a convincing performance as the lead character.

Often indicates a more formal or structured presentation of reasons to support or oppose a point, and can imply disagreement or conflict.

• The lawyer made a compelling argument for his client's innocence.
• Their argument about politics lasted for hours.

Used when trying to convince someone to do or believe something by using reason or argument in a gentle and respectful manner.

• With a bit of persuasion, she agreed to join the club.
• He needed some persuasion to change his opinion, but eventually he understood.

Refers to having an effect on someone's behavior, thoughts, or decisions, often in a subtle and indirect way.

• Her influence was critical in shaping the project's outcome.
• Parents have a significant influence on their children's values and beliefs.

Implies controlling someone or something to your advantage, often in a deceptive or unfair manner. It has a negative connotation.

• The politician was accused of manipulation to gain more votes.
• She felt betrayed by his manipulation of the situation.

Involves forcing someone to do something against their will through threats or pressure. It has a negative connotation.

• The confession was obtained through coercion.
• The company faced allegations of coercion and unfair treatment of employees.

This word is used to describe the act of convincing someone to do or believe something through reasoning or argument. It generally has a neutral or positive connotation.

• She used her skills of persuasion to convince the board to approve the project
• It took a lot of persuasion to get him to try the new restaurant

This word focuses on presenting arguments or evidence that make someone believe something is true or real. It implies effectiveness in argument.

• His argument was so convincing that no one could disagree with him
• The lawyer gave a convincing defense during the trial

This term is broader and refers to the ability to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something. Its connotation can be positive or negative depending on the context.

• Her influence on the company's culture is undeniable
• The teacher's influence helped shape his career

This term carries a negative connotation and implies controlling or influencing someone in a devious or unscrupulous way.

• He used manipulation to get what he wanted from his colleagues
• The politician's manipulation of the media was evident