What is persuasive? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of persuasive

persuasiveadjective

/pəˈsweɪsɪv//pərˈsweɪsɪv/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "persuasive." It can be tricky! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables: It's broken down into three syllables:

  • per - (like "per" in "peruse")
  • sua - (like "soo-ah") - the "ua" is a diphthong, meaning it's a blended vowel sound.
  • sive - (like "sive" in "missive")

2. Sounds:

  • per: As mentioned, like "per" in "peruse." A short, clear "er" sound.
  • sua: This is the tricky part. It's closest to "soo-ah." The "ua" sound is a bit like the "oo" in "zoo" but shorter and more pulled back in the mouth. Think of a sound between "oo" and "uh."
  • sive: Like "sive" in "missive." A clear "s" followed by a short "ive" sound.

3. Putting it together:

It should sound approximately like: per-soo-sive (with short, clear syllables)

Resources for Hearing it:

Tips:

  • Don't overemphasize the "sua." It's a subtle sound that many people rush.
  • Focus on the flow between the syllables.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Break it down even further?

Usage and examples with the word persuasive in English

Let's break down how to use the word "persuasive" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances.

1. As an Adjective (Describing Something):

This is the most common usage. "Persuasive" describes something that is likely to convince someone to do or believe something.

  • Examples:
    • "She gave a persuasive speech about the importance of recycling." (The speech was convincing.)
    • "He used a persuasive argument to convince me to go to the concert." (His argument was convincing.)
    • "The advertisement was incredibly persuasive, and I immediately bought the product." (The ad was convincing and made you want to buy.)
    • "A persuasive tone of voice can be very effective in negotiation." (A confident and convincing way of speaking.)

2. As a Verb (Describing an Action):

"Persuasive" can also be used as a verb, meaning to attempt to convince someone.

  • Examples:
    • "He tried to persuade me to change my mind." (He attempted to convince me.)
    • "The salesperson persuaded her to buy the extended warranty." (She convinced her to buy it.)
    • “The doctor persuaded the patient to take the medication.” (The doctor convinced the patient.)

3. Synonyms and Related Words:

Knowing synonyms can help you use the word more effectively and understand its subtle differences:

  • Convincing: Very similar, often interchangeable.
  • Compelling: Suggests a strong and irresistible force for persuasion. (e.g., "A compelling argument")
  • Influential: Focuses on the effect of the persuasion.
  • Rational: Suggests using logic and reason.
  • Eloquent: Suggests skillful and beautiful use of language in persuasion.
  • Effective: Simply means successful in persuading.

4. Key Considerations & Nuances:

  • Evidence & Logic: Something is persuasive because it’s well-reasoned and often supported by evidence. It’s not just about being forceful.
  • Target Audience: Persuasion is always relative to the person you're trying to convince. What's persuasive to one person might not be to another.
  • Tone: Your tone of voice and mannerisms contribute to how persuasive you come across.

5. Example Sentences Combining Different Usages:

  • "The politician used a persuasive argument, hoping to persuade voters to support his policies."
  • “Her persuasive style of writing makes her books incredibly compelling to read.”

To help me tailor my explanation to your specific needs, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to use "persuasive" in? (e.g., writing, speaking, a specific situation?)
  • Do you want examples in a particular context? (e.g., business, education, personal relationships?)

Synonyms for the word persuasive

Practice with vocabulary persuasive

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. His argument, backed by extensive research, was so ______ that it swayed even the most skeptical members of the committee.
  2. The marketing team developed a highly ______ campaign to introduce the new product to a competitive market.
  3. Despite his strong beliefs, his presentation lacked a ______ structure, making it difficult for the audience to follow his reasoning.
  4. The CEO's ______ speech inspired employees to work harder towards the company's shared vision.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which of the following qualities are essential for a successful salesperson? a) Articulate b) Dogmatic c) Persuasive d) Reserved e) Empathetic

  2. A truly effective leader needs to be able to deliver messages that are: a) Ambiguous b) Compelling c) Forceful d) Persuasive e) Vague

  3. The lawyer's closing statement was incredibly ______, leading the jury to find the defendant guilty. a) Unconvincing b) Coercive c) Indecisive d) Persuasive e) Powerful

  4. Before launching the new project, the team needed to develop a ______ plan that clearly outlined their objectives and methodology. a) Comprehensive b) Dubious c) Flimsy d) Superficial e) Thorough

  5. What characteristics describe an argument that relies heavily on emotional manipulation rather than facts? a) Rational b) Fallacious c) Objective d) Specious e) Logical

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The advertising campaign successfully made people believe they needed the new smartphone.
  2. To win the grant, you must convince the committee of your project's potential.
  3. He managed to influence his colleagues to adopt his innovative approach.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. persuasive
  2. persuasive
  3. coherent
  4. inspirational

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a) Articulate, c) Persuasive, e) Empathetic
  2. b) Compelling, d) Persuasive
  3. d) Persuasive, e) Powerful
  4. a) Comprehensive, e) Thorough
  5. b) Fallacious, d) Specious

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The advertising campaign was highly persuasive, making people believe they needed the new smartphone.
  2. To win the grant, you must present a persuasive case for your project's potential to the committee.
  3. He managed to convince his colleagues to adopt his innovative approach.

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