Rhetorical

Quick meaning: Rhetorical is an adjective meaning Part of or similar to rhetoric, the use of language as a means to persuade.

Meaning

Part of or similar to rhetoric, the use of language as a means to persuade.

More Meanings

1. Not earnest, or presented only for the purpose of an argument.
2. (education, dated) A study or exercise in rhetoric.

Example Sentences

A rhetorical question is one used merely to make a point, with no response expected.

Unfortunately, she has used the attack as a launch pad for a bizarre and undercooked exercise in rhetorical bothsidesism, in which she argues that American Jews should be just as worried about college students who overzealously criticize Israel as they are about the aspiring Einsatzgruppen who shoot up shuls.

Word Forms

• rhetoricals

Synonyms for rhetorical

Depending on context, synonyms include turgid, embellished, grandiloquent, large, ornate, tumid.

Antonyms for rhetorical

Common opposites include unrhetorical.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include oratorical, declamatory, anapestic, stylistic, orotund, poetic.

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