What is cajole? Pronunciation and usage in English

cajole means . Learn how to pronounce and use cajole through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of cajole

cajoleverb

/kəˈdʒəʊl//kəˈdʒəʊl/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "cajole" in English. It can be tricky! Here's a breakdown, with phonetic approximations and explanations:

Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

/kəˈʤoʊl/

Explanation & Breakdown:

  1. "caj" - /kə/: This is a short, unstressed "uh" sound, like the "a" in "about." It's almost swallowed. Think of it as a very quick, almost silent "uh."

  2. "ole" - /ʤoʊl/: This is the more challenging part.

    • "jo" - /ʤo/: This is the "j" sound as in "jump" (a voiced "j" – your throat vibrates slightly). It's followed by a long "o" sound, similar to the "o" in "go."
    • "-le" - /l/: A simple, short "l" sound.

Putting it all together (and how it sounds):

It sounds approximately like: " kuh-JOHL" (with a very quick "uh" at the beginning)

Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Stress: The stress is on the second syllable: /ˈʤoʊl/. You want to emphasize the "jo" part.
  • Smooth flow: Aim for a smooth transition between the "uh" and the "j" sound. Don’t chop it up.
  • Don’t overemphasize the "j": While you need the "j" sound, avoid making it too forceful. It's subtle.

Resources to Hear It:

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Usage and examples with the word cajole in English

Let's break down how to use the word "cajole" in English. It’s a wonderfully evocative word, but it’s not used very frequently, so understanding its nuances is key.

1. Core Meaning:

At its heart, "cajole" means to persuade someone gently but insidiously, often by flattery or appeals to their sympathy or emotions, to do something they don't want to do. It suggests a bit of manipulation, but not in a blatant, forceful way. It's more subtle and charmingly deceptive.

2. Key Characteristics:

  • Gentle Persuasion: It’s not a direct demand or argument. It’s a coaxing, a subtle urging.
  • Emotional Appeal: Cajoling relies heavily on touching someone’s feelings – kindness, guilt, desire, love, etc.
  • Subtle Manipulation: There’s a hint of trickery involved. The cajoler knows how to play on someone's vulnerabilities.
  • Often Used for Children or the Vulnerable: Traditionally, the word has been associated with persuading children or those who might be easily swayed. However, it can be used more broadly.

3. How to Use it in Sentences:

Here are some examples to illustrate different ways to use "cajole":

  • “She tried to cajole her daughter into eating her vegetables by promising her extra ice cream.” (Appealing to desire)
  • “He went to his boss, cajoling him to give him a raise with heartfelt stories about his dedication.” (Appealing to sympathy and feelings of loyalty)
  • “The doctor gently cajole the patient into taking his medication.” (Using kindness and concern)
  • “My grandmother used to cajole me into helping her with the gardening.” (A playful, persistent, and affectionate encouragement)
  • “The politician attempted to cajole voters into supporting his new policy.” (A more calculated, though still subtle, attempt to influence)

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Persuade
  • Coax
  • Sweet-talk
  • Flatter
  • Entice
  • Urge
  • Influence (though ‘influence’ is often more direct)

5. Important Notes:

  • It’s a Formal Word: “Cajole” is generally considered a more formal and literary word than “persuade” or “convince.” You're less likely to hear it in everyday conversation.
  • Connotation: There’s a slight negative connotation – a hint that the person being cajole is being influenced rather than truly informed. It suggests the person being cajole may not fully understand why they are doing something.
  • Don't Overuse: Because of its formality and slightly manipulative feel, using “cajole” too frequently can sound a bit affected.

Example Comparing "Cajole" and "Persuade":

  • Persuade: "I persuaded him to come to the party." (A straightforward argument or reasoned approach)
  • Cajole: "She cajole him into helping her with the dishes by telling him how much she appreciated him." (A more emotional, gentle, and subtly manipulative approach).

Resources for Further Exploration:

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Synonyms for the word cajole

Practice with vocabulary cajole

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The project manager tried to ______ her team into working overtime on the critical launch, promising lavish commendations and extra time off.
  2. The company aims to ______ a sense of loyalty among its employees through comprehensive benefits and career development programs.
  3. Despite his initial reluctance, the sales representative managed to ______ the hesitant client to sign the premium package by emphasizing the exclusive benefits.
  4. Before finalizing the partnership agreement, it's crucial to ______ the terms carefully with legal counsel to ensure they align with our long-term strategic objectives.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following describes efforts to persuade someone gently, often with flattery or insincere promises, to do something they might not want to do? a) coerce b) demand c) cajole d) threaten e) compel

  2. To encourage a reluctant colleague to share their innovative ideas during a brainstorming session, you might: a) mandate their participation by company policy. b) cajole them with praise for their past contributions and potential impact. c) entice them with the prospect of recognition and leadership opportunities. d) disregard their opinion, allowing others to lead. e) order them to speak up immediately.

  3. When a salesperson uses excessive charm, compliments, and soft appeals to secure a deal, they are attempting to: a) manipulate b) cajole c) inform d) dictate e) enlighten

  4. The board decided to ______ strict new compliance guidelines across all departments to enhance operational integrity. a) cajole b) implement c) abolish d) dispute e) negotiate

  5. To settle a contentious agreement and find a mutually acceptable solution, the two parties needed to ______ and adjust their initial demands. a) dictate b) cajole c) compromise d) concede e) compel

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: She tried to use sweet words and compliments to get her colleague to agree to take on the extra weekend shift. Rewrite (using "cajole" or a related word form):

  2. Original: The marketing team gently persuaded potential customers to try the new product by highlighting its exclusive features and offering a substantial discount. Rewrite (using "cajole" or a related word form):

  3. Original: The company managed to secure the contract after lengthy discussions and several concessions from both sides. Rewrite (do NOT use "cajole" or related word forms, use a suitable replacement):

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. cajole
  2. foster
  3. cajole
  4. review

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) cajole
  2. b) cajole, c) entice
  3. a) manipulate, b) cajole
  4. b) implement
  5. c) compromise

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. She tried to cajole her colleague into taking on the extra weekend shift.
  2. The marketing team cajoled potential customers into trying the new product by highlighting its exclusive features and offering a substantial discount.
  3. The company managed to negotiate the contract after lengthy discussions and several concessions from both sides.

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