What does persuasive mean?
Persuasive describes something that has the power to influence an audience or convince someone of a belief or proposed action. It is especially common in reference to arguments, speeches, writing, speakers, and evidence. A persuasive person persuades effectively through reasoning, clear presentation, emotional appeal, or a combination of these methods. The word can imply that the audience is genuinely convinced, not merely that the message sounds impressive or is forceful. In legal and academic contexts, persuasive evidence may be evidence that strongly influences a decision without necessarily being conclusive. The related noun persuasion refers both to the act of persuading and to a belief or conviction held by someone, while persuaded describes a person who has accepted an argument. Persuasive is therefore useful for describing communication that successfully changes attitudes or actions.
adjectiveHaving the ability to persuade someone to accept a belief, opinion, or course of action. It can also describe an argument, speech, or piece of evidence that is convincing and influential.
- Having the power to persuade or convince.
- Describing an argument, speech, piece of evidence, or other communication that is compelling and likely to influence an audience.
"She made a persuasive case for investing in renewable energy."
"The professor gave a persuasive explanation of why the policy would reduce inequality."
"The advertisement was persuasive, and many customers changed brands."
A persuasive idea does more than inform: it changes the audience's mind or moves the audience to act.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does persuasive come from?
Persuasive comes from the Latin verb persuadere, formed from per-, meaning 'intensely' or 'thoroughly', and suadere, meaning 'to advise' or 'recommend'. The English verb persuade developed from this Latin word and the suffix -ive was later added to form the adjective. Related English words include persuasion, suasion, and dissuade, all of which reflect the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How persuasive is actually used
Persuasive is commonly used of speeches, arguments, writing, speakers, and evidence. It generally conveys a stronger sense of successful influence than convincing, while remaining neutral rather than implying deception.
Easily confused with persuasive
Persuasive is an adjective describing something capable of influencing others, while persuaded is the participial form describing a person who has been convinced.