Rhetorical
Relating to rhetoric; used to describe speech or writing intended to persuade or impress. Also describes a question or statement asked or crafted for effect, not to obtain information.
adjectiveRhetorical
Relating to rhetoric; used to describe speech or writing intended to persuade or impress. Also describes a question or statement asked or crafted for effect, not to obtain information.
adjectiveImagine This
Imagine a public speaker delivering a bold address and pausing to ask, 'Is this the best path forward?'βa rhetorical question meant to provoke thought rather than solicit a real answer.
Sounds Like
ri-TOR-uh-kuhl
Looks Like
Looks like 'rhetor' + 'ical' (rhetorical)
Remember This
Rhetoric comes from the Greek rhΔtΕr, meaning 'public speaker.' The adjective 'rhetorical' describes language that aims to persuade or embellish, not merely convey facts.
Other Forms
Connect With
rhetoric, orator, eloquence, persuasion, discourse, rhetorical device, ethos, pathos, logos
Note
Use 'rhetorical' to discuss style and effectiveness of language. Do not use it to mean 'logical' or 'true'βit concerns persuasion and presentation, not factual accuracy. A 'rhetorical question' is not meant to be answered.