What does cajoler mean?
Cajoler is a verb that means to persuade or influence someone by gentle or flattering means. It can imply insincerity or manipulation, but it can also be used in a more neutral sense. The word has a long history, dating back to Latin and French, where it was used to describe coaxing or flattering. In English, cajoler is often used in formal or professional contexts, such as sales or politics, where persuasion or influence is necessary. However, it can also be used in more informal contexts, such as social interactions or personal relationships. Overall, cajoler is a useful word for describing gentle persuasion or influence, but it requires careful consideration of its connotations and nuances.
verbTo persuade or influence someone by gentle or flattering means, often in a way that is considered insincere or manipulative.
- To persuade or influence someone by gentle or flattering means
"The politician cajoled the public into supporting the new tax law by promising them benefits they would not actually receive."
"The salesperson cajoled the customer into buying the more expensive model by highlighting its features."
"The politician cajoled the public into supporting the war by using emotional appeals."
The plural form cajolers is used to describe multiple people who are persuading or influencing others by gentle or flattering means.
"The sales team cajoled the customers into buying the more expensive models by highlighting their features."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of cajoler
The word cajoler originated from the Latin 'cajolari', which means to flatter or coax. This Latin word is derived from 'cajo', which means to coax or persuade. The French language adopted the word 'cajoler' and used it to describe gentle persuasion or influence. From there, the word was borrowed into English, where it has been used in a variety of contexts.
How cajoler is actually used
Cajoler can have a negative connotation, implying insincerity or manipulation. However, it can also be used in a more neutral sense to describe gentle persuasion or influence.