rhetoric
Rhetoric is the way someone uses language to persuade or influence other people. It can also mean speech or writing that sounds important but may not be sincere or honest.
Examples
3 of 5The leader used powerful rhetoric to make the people feel brave.
The leader used powerful rhetoric to make the people feel brave.
The diplomat's rhetoric was designed to prevent a war between the two nations.
The diplomat's rhetoric was designed to prevent a war between the two nations.
I'm tired of all the political rhetoric on the news every night.
I'm tired of all the political rhetoric on the news every night.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Rhetoric rhymes with 'electric.' Think of it as language that tries to 'spark' an audience into action.
Quick Quiz
The public was bored by the candidate's empty _____ and wanted to see real plans.
Correct!
The correct answer is: rhetoric
Examples
The leader used powerful rhetoric to make the people feel brave.
everydayThe leader used powerful rhetoric to make the people feel brave.
The diplomat's rhetoric was designed to prevent a war between the two nations.
formalThe diplomat's rhetoric was designed to prevent a war between the two nations.
I'm tired of all the political rhetoric on the news every night.
informalI'm tired of all the political rhetoric on the news every night.
The professor's study focuses on the rhetoric used in ancient Greek speeches.
academicThe professor's study focuses on the rhetoric used in ancient Greek speeches.
The company's marketing rhetoric emphasizes high quality and low prices.
businessThe company's marketing rhetoric emphasizes high quality and low prices.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
rhetorical question
rhetorical question
mere rhetoric
mere rhetoric
a flight of rhetoric
a flight of rhetoric
Often Confused With
Oratory is specifically about the skill of public speaking, while rhetoric includes both speaking and writing techniques.
Dialectic is a method of logical argument to find the truth, whereas rhetoric focuses on persuading an audience.
Usage Notes
In modern English, the word often has a negative tone, suggesting that someone is using fancy words to hide a lack of real action or substance. However, in an academic context, it is a neutral term for the study of communication.
Common Mistakes
Don't use 'rhetorics' as a plural noun; it is uncountable. Avoid using it as a verb.
Memory Tip
Rhetoric rhymes with 'electric.' Think of it as language that tries to 'spark' an audience into action.
Word Origin
Derived from the Greek word 'rhetorike', meaning the art of an orator (public speaker).
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In ancient Greece and Rome, rhetoric was one of the most important subjects a student could study to participate in democracy.
Quick Quiz
The public was bored by the candidate's empty _____ and wanted to see real plans.
Correct!
The correct answer is: rhetoric
Related Grammar Rules
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
complement
A2A thing that completes or brings to perfection something else. In grammar, it refers to a word or phrase that follows a verb and provides more information about the subject or object.
compound
A2Describes something that is made of two or more separate parts or elements joined together. It is often used to talk about words, sentences, or chemical substances that have multiple components.
conceive
A2To form an idea, plan, or concept in the mind. It is also the medical term used to describe when a woman becomes pregnant.
confer
A2To discuss something with other people in order to reach a decision or exchange ideas. It can also mean to officially give an honor, title, or degree to someone.
conform
A2To behave according to rules, standards, or what is expected by a group of people. It means to fit in or act in a way that matches others.
consecutive
A2Following one after another in a continuous series without any breaks. It describes things that happen in a logical order, like numbers (1, 2, 3) or days (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday).
consistency
A2Consistency is the quality of always acting or behaving in the same way. it also describes how thick or smooth a liquid or substance is.
disclude
B1Describing a state where someone or something is left out, omitted, or not allowed to participate in a group or activity. It refers to the condition of being kept apart from a whole or a set.
antiformous
B1Describes a shape or structure that is curved or folded upwards like an arch. It is most often used in geology and geometry to describe a convex surface.
interspect
B1Describing a person who is thoughtful and focused on their own internal thoughts and feelings. It refers to the act of looking inward to examine one's own emotions and motives rather than focusing on external things.
Comments (0)
Login to CommentStart learning languages for free
Start Learning Free