Persuasive: meaning, definitions and examples

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persuasive

 

[ pərˈsweɪsɪv ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

writing

Capable of convincing someone to do or believe something through reasoning or argument.

Synonyms

compelling, convincing, influential.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
persuasive

Same as the first entry.

convincing

Typically used when something or someone successfully makes others believe or accept something as true or valid. It is often used in everyday conversations, marketing, and sales.

  • She gave a convincing performance that made the audience believe in her character.
  • The salesman had very convincing arguments about the benefits of the product.
compelling

Often used when something is not just convincing but also powerful and irresistible emotionally or intellectually. It is suitable for describing captivating stories, strong arguments, or urgent needs.

  • The documentary presented a compelling case for environmental conservation.
  • His speech was so compelling that everyone in the room felt moved to action.
influential

Used when talking about someone or something that has a strong effect on other people's decisions or actions. This is suitable for describing people, institutions, or works that have a long-lasting or widespread impact.

  • Martin Luther King Jr. was one of the most influential leaders of the Civil Rights Movement.
  • Her influential book changed the way people think about fitness.

Examples of usage

  • She gave a persuasive speech that convinced the audience to support her cause.
  • The book was filled with persuasive arguments that changed the reader's perspective.
Context #2 | Adjective

personality

Having the ability to influence others or create an impact through communication or behavior.

Synonyms

captivating, charismatic, influential.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
persuasive

Used when describing someone or something that can convince others effectively, often in debates, negotiations, or marketing.

  • She gave a persuasive argument during the meeting.
  • His persuasive skills helped him close the deal.
charismatic

Describes someone who has a magnetic personality that attracts and influences others, often used for leaders or public figures.

  • The charismatic leader inspired everyone in the room.
  • His charismatic nature made him very popular.
influential

Refers to someone or something that has a significant impact on others' thoughts, behaviors, or decisions, often used in contexts like politics, business, or media.

  • She is an influential figure in the tech industry.
  • His writings have been very influential in modern philosophy.
captivating

Applied to describe something or someone that catches and holds attention because it is interesting or attractive, often used in storytelling, art, or speeches.

  • The movie had a captivating plot.
  • Her performance was absolutely captivating.

Examples of usage

  • Her persuasive personality made her a successful salesperson.
  • He was known for his persuasive skills in negotiations.

Translations

Translations of the word "persuasive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 persuasivo

🇮🇳 प्रभावशाली

🇩🇪 überzeugend

🇮🇩 meyakinkan

🇺🇦 переконливий

🇵🇱 przekonujący

🇯🇵 説得力のある

🇫🇷 persuasif

🇪🇸 persuasivo

🇹🇷 ikna edici

🇰🇷 설득력 있는

🇸🇦 مقنع

🇨🇿 přesvědčivý

🇸🇰 presvedčivý

🇨🇳 有说服力的

🇸🇮 prepričljiv

🇮🇸 sannfærandi

🇰🇿 сендіру

🇬🇪 დამაჯერებელი

🇦🇿 inandırıcı

🇲🇽 persuasivo

Etymology

The word 'persuasive' originated from the Latin word 'persuasivus', which means 'convincing'. The concept of persuasion has been studied for centuries, with roots in ancient rhetoric and philosophy. Throughout history, persuasive techniques have been used in various fields such as politics, advertising, and communication to influence opinions and behavior.

See also: persuade, persuaded, persuading, persuasion, persuasively, persuasiveness, unpersuaded, unpersuasive.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,548 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.