rhetoric
The art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing
Examples
In a meeting
“The CEO's rhetoric around innovation has shifted significantly this quarter.”
Over coffee
“I like his ideas, but his rhetoric sometimes feels too aggressive.”
Why this word
language
Rhetoric specifically refers to persuasive or elaborate language, often with strategic intent
speech
Rhetoric emphasizes the art and techniques of persuasive communication
discourse
Rhetoric focuses on persuasive effectiveness and style, sometimes implying empty eloquence
Usage tip
Can be neutral (the art of persuasion) or slightly negative (empty language). Context determines the tone.
Etymology
Greek 'rhetorike' — art of oratory, from rhetor (orator, teacher)
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Related words
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
concise
Giving a lot of information clearly in few words.
ambiguous
Open to more than one interpretation; not clear or decided.
convey
To communicate or make an idea, feeling, or meaning known.
reiterate
To say something again for emphasis or clarity.
paraphrase
To restate something in different words to make it clearer or shorter.