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View synonyms for rhetoric

rhetoric

[ ret-er-ik ]

noun

  1. (in writing or speech) the undue use of exaggeration or display; bombast.
  2. the art or science of all specialized literary uses of language in prose or verse, including the figures of speech.
  3. the study of the effective use of language.
  4. the ability to use language effectively.
  5. the art of prose in general as opposed to verse.
  6. the art of making persuasive speeches; oratory.
  7. (in classical oratory) the art of influencing the thought and conduct of an audience.
  8. (in older use) a work on rhetoric.


rhetoric

/ ˈrɛtərɪk /

noun

  1. the study of the technique of using language effectively
  2. the art of using speech to persuade, influence, or please; oratory
  3. excessive use of ornamentation and contrivance in spoken or written discourse; bombast
  4. speech or discourse that pretends to significance but lacks true meaning

    all the politician says is mere rhetoric

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Word History and Origins

Origin of rhetoric1

First recorded in 1300–50; from Latin rhētorica, from Greek rhētorikḕ (téchnē) “rhetorical (art)”; replacing Middle English rethorik, from Medieval Latin rēthorica, Latin rhētorica, as above
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Word History and Origins

Origin of rhetoric1

C14: via Latin from Greek rhētorikē ( tekhnē ) (the art of) rhetoric, from rhētōr rhetor
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Example Sentences

I’ve steeled myself against the bigotry and hatred for so long, and I’m so comfortable in my role as a cultural worker, that I feel emboldened by that sort of rhetoric.

With tariffs, export controls and pointed rhetoric, the president-elect appears ready to take an even tougher stance this time around.

From BBC

The reports began introducing the rhetoric of climate change straight into the heart of the far right’s vocabulary.

From Salon

Some hoped he would follow through on his dovish campaign rhetoric, others thought he might escalate conflict in the Middle East.

From Salon

Prior to the selection of Zeldin, scientists analyzing Trump’s rhetoric, policy proposals and record expressed alarm at the prospect of his returning to power.

From Salon

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