rhetorical

[ ri-tawr-i-kuhl, -tor- ]

adjective

1. used for, belonging to, or concerned with mere style or effect, rather than truth, substance, or meaning:

   Her bold and ingenious analogies, although engaging, are purely rhetorical, adding nothing to our understanding of the issue.

   Synonyms: oratorical, stylistic, verbal

2. marked by or tending to use exaggerated language or bombast:

   Fortunately, the rebel leaders did not have the military power to follow through on their fiery rhetorical eruptions.

3. of, relating to, or concerned with rhetoric, or the skillful use of language to persuade people:

   She had spent hours with her advisors discussing rhetorical strategy, and now it was time to deliver the speech.

4. of, relating to, or in reference to a rhetorical question:

   No need to respond—that was rhetorical.

rhetorical

/ rɪˈtɒrɪkəl /

adjective

1. concerned with effect or style rather than content or meaning; bombastic
2. of or relating to rhetoric or oratory

Derived Forms

• rheˈtorically, adverb

Other Words From

• rhe·tor·i·cal·ly adverb
• rhe·tor·i·cal·ness noun
• non·rhe·tor·i·cal adjective
• un·rhe·tor·i·cal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of rhetorical¹

First recorded in 1470–80; from Latin rhētoric(us) (from Greek rhētorikós ) + -al ¹

Example Sentences

She is a professor in the Department of Communication and Journalism at Texas A&M University and author of several books, including "Demagogue for President: The Rhetorical Genius of Donald Trump."

From Salon

Trump has always used propaganda and rhetorical tricks effectively.

From Salon

Schiff, however, gave a rhetorical shrug.

From Los Angeles Times

The technical details of the defined contribution — allowing all workers to contribute to their own retirement accounts, with employers contributing extra — belie the bigger rhetorical shift that took place: the employee is responsible for supporting herself in retirement.

From Salon

They enter this curious and claustrophobic home only when Mr. Reed promises his wife is baking a pie in the other room, but he draws them into his labyrinth using false promises and rhetorical exercises.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• oratorical
• vocal