rhetorical
Relating to persuasive speaking or writing; asked for effect rather than information
Examples
In a meeting
“The CEO's question was rhetorical—she was making a point about our priorities.”
Over coffee
“That was a rhetorical question; I wasn't actually expecting you to answer.”
Why this word
persuasive
rhetorical refers to the art of effective or persuasive speaking/writing, while persuasive just means convincing
stylistic
rhetorical specifically concerns techniques of effective communication and argumentation, while stylistic broadly relates to manner of expression
linguistic
rhetorical focuses on persuasive language use and argumentation strategies, while linguistic relates to language structure generally
Usage tip
Use to describe questions that don't require answers or language designed to persuade. Can indicate sophistication or, negatively, empty wordiness.
Etymology
Greek: rhetorikos (oratorical) from rhetor (orator, teacher)
Get a new word every morning
One precise word per day. Under 60 seconds to read. Free forever.
Related words
concise
Giving a lot of information clearly in few words.
persuade
Cause someone to believe or do something through reasoning or argument
rhetoric
The art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing
rebut
Claim or prove that evidence or an accusation is false
cajole
Persuade someone to do something by sustained coaxing or flattery
abbreviate
Shorten a word, phrase, or text