Persuasive
/pərˈsweɪsɪv/
Definitions
Capable of convincing someone to do or believe something by arguing or asking.
/pərˈsweɪsɪv/
Effective in convincing someone to do or believe something.
Her argument was persuasive, and I changed my mind.
💡 Simply: When something is persuasive, it's like a really good sales pitch or a strong argument that makes you want to agree with it or do something. Imagine your friend giving you a persuasive reason to go to the movies. You end up going!
👶 For kids: When something is persuasive, it's like it's really good at making you believe it or do what it says.
More Examples
The evidence presented by the prosecution was very persuasive.
He's a persuasive speaker who can win over any audience.
How It's Used
"The sales pitch was persuasive, leading to a significant increase in orders."
"The lawyer presented persuasive evidence to the jury, helping his client win the case."
"The politician delivered a persuasive speech that resonated with voters."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
a persuasive argument
An argument that effectively convinces someone to believe or do something.
"The lawyer presented a persuasive argument based on the evidence."
persuasive power
The ability to influence someone's beliefs or actions.
"The politician had considerable persuasive power, able to sway public opinion."
From Middle English *persuasioun* (noun) and Old French *persuasif* (adjective), both derived from Latin *persuadere* 'to persuade', from *per-* 'thoroughly' + *suadere* 'to advise'.
The word 'persuasive' and its related forms have been used for centuries to describe effective communication and influence. It reflects the importance of rhetoric and argumentation throughout history.
Memory tip
Think of a persuasive argument that sweeps you off your feet. It convinces you!
Word Origin
"to persuade, to convince"