rhetorically

[ ri-tawr-ik-lee, -tor- ]

adverb

1. in a way that uses language for style or effect:

   These essays discuss how the term participatory has been deployed rhetorically by a range of institutions.

2. not expecting an answer, either because the answer is unknowable or because it is obvious:

   I am not asking the question rhetorically or snidely.

3. in way that uses language in an exaggerated way:

   The realities of the global marketplace are quite apparent; they don't need to be rhetorically beaten to death.

4. in a way that uses specialized literary language, such as figures of speech:

   Some of the entries are concise, but most of them are verbally and rhetorically elaborate.

5. in a way that uses language particularly effectively:

   Her testimony was rhetorically strong, but scientifically weak.

6. using words, especially in the absence of action:

   He fails to demonstrate the validity of his claims, but merely asserts them rhetorically.

Other Words From

• non·rhe·tor·i·cal·ly adverb
• un·rhe·tor·i·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of rhetorically¹

rhetorical ( def ) + -ly

Example Sentences

At least rhetorically and stylistically, Trump’s administration was defined by his constant pandering to his biggest fans.

From Los Angeles Times

In other words, if the Republicans wished to be pro-family really, not just rhetorically, they would have clamored to extend the credits.

From Los Angeles Times

“We need smart people, and people that have the ability to lead. She doesn’t have that ability. Can you imagine her with Chairman Xi,” he asked Musk rhetorically, referring to the China's authoritarian leader.

From Salon

“Are shelters or sanctuary ever perfect?” she asked rhetorically.

From Los Angeles Times

"Of all the weirdness around this campaign, this is a truly strange thing to tell people, right?" she asked rhetorically.

From Salon