rhetorical
/'retərikəl/
Definition
- Adjective:
- Relating to or concerned with the art of rhetoric: Pertaining to the skill of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, often involving stylistic techniques.
- Characterized by language that is elaborate, stylized, or intended for persuasive effect rather than conveying simple information: Language that is ornate, exaggerated, or designed to impress or persuade, sometimes at the expense of substance.
Usage
- As a descriptive adjective: Used to describe speech, writing, questions, or devices that are characteristic of or suitable for rhetoric.
- The politician's speech was full of rhetorical flourishes designed to sway the audience.
- She asked a rhetorical question, not expecting an answer but to make her point more forcefully.
Advanced Usage
- Rhetorical question: A question asked not to receive an answer but to create a dramatic effect or to make a point.
- "Do you think I'm made of money?" is a common rhetorical question expressing frustration.
- Rhetorical device: A technique used by a speaker or writer to achieve a particular effect, such as metaphor, hyperbole, or alliteration.
- Using anaphora, the repetition of a word at the start of successive clauses, is a powerful rhetorical device.
Variants and Related Words
- Rhetoric (n): The art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing; language that is elaborate and intended to impress (which can sometimes be viewed negatively).
- His speech was more about empty rhetoric than concrete plans.
- Rhetorically (adv): In a rhetorical manner.
- She sighed rhetorically before continuing her argument.
Synonyms
- Oratorical: Related to the art of public speaking.
- Bombastic: High-sounding but with little meaning; inflated.
- Grandiloquent: Pompous or extravagant in language, style, or manner.
Antonyms
- Plain: Not elaborate; simple.
- Literal: Taking words in their usual or most basic sense without metaphor or exaggeration.
- Unadorned: Not decorated or elaborate; simple.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- Mere/Pure rhetoric: Language that is impressive-sounding but insincere, empty, or lacking in substance.
- The promises in the manifesto were dismissed as mere rhetoric.
Adjective
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given to rhetoric, emphasizing style at the expense of thought
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mere rhetorical frippery
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of or relating to rhetoric
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accepted two or three verbal and rhetorical changes I suggested- W.A.White
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the rhetorical sin of the meaningless variation- Lewis Mumford
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