Meaning & Definition of word "Persuasion"

Persuasion

/pərˈswāzhən/

noun:

  • 1. The act of convincing someone to do or believe something.
    • Example: Her skill in persuasion helped her win the argument.
  • 2. A particular system of beliefs or opinions.
    • Example: He was raised in a family with strong religious persuasion.
  • 3. A way of influencing someone's decision, judgment, or actions.
    • Example: The campaign relied heavily on the persuasion of public opinion.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from Old French 'persuasion', from Latin 'persuasio(n-)', from the verb 'persuadere'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

power of persuasion:

The ability to convince others effectively.

art of persuasion:

Skill or technique of convincing people.

pitch of persuasion:

A presentation aimed at convincing someone.

Related Words

convince:

To cause someone to believe firmly in the truth of something.

influence:

The capacity to have an effect on the character or behavior of someone or something.

argument:

An exchange of diverging or opposite views.

Slang Meanings of persuasion

Meaning: Sales pitch

Example Sentence: The salesperson had a slick sales pitch that really was just persuasion.

Meaning: Soft sell

Example Sentence: Using a soft sell can be a more effective form of persuasion.