rhetoric
UK: ˈrɛtərɪk | US: ˈrɛtərɪk
n. the art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing
n. language designed to have a persuasive or impressive effect (often with negative connotations)
n. (archaic) the study of principles and rules of composition
The word "rhetoric" traces back to the Greek "rhētorikē" (tekhnē), meaning "the art of an orator." The root "rhetor" refers to a public speaker or teacher of oratory, derived from "rhein" (to speak or flow). The suffix "-ic" was added in Latin ("rhetoricus") to form an adjective, later adopted into English as a noun. The term originally emphasized skill in persuasive speech but gradually acquired nuances of empty or manipulative language.
Her speech was full of powerful rhetoric that moved the audience.
Politicians often use rhetoric to sway public opinion.
The debate focused more on rhetoric than factual arguments.
Ancient Greek philosophers like Aristotle studied rhetoric extensively.
His writing relies heavily on emotional rhetoric rather than logic.