persuasion
UK: pəˈsweɪʒ(ə)n | US: pərˈsweɪʒən
n. the act of convincing someone to believe or do something through reasoning or argument
n. a strongly held belief or opinion
n. a system or method of beliefs (e.g., religious persuasion)
The word "persuasion" originates from Latin persuasionem (nominative persuasio), derived from persuadēre ("to convince thoroughly"). The morpheme per- intensifies the action (meaning "thoroughly"), while suadēre means "to urge" or "advise." Over time, the term evolved in Old French as persuasion before entering Middle English, retaining its core meaning of influencing beliefs or actions through reasoned argument. The suffix -ion nominalizes the verb, turning it into a state or process.
Her gentle persuasion eventually convinced him to join the project.
Political leaders often rely on persuasion rather than force to achieve their goals.
He spoke with such persuasion that the audience was moved to tears.
She holds a strong persuasion that honesty is always the best policy.
The advertisement uses subtle persuasion to encourage healthy eating habits.