Rhetorical Devices

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Inclusive Language

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Words like 'we', 'our', 'us' that include the reader and create a sense of solidarity or responsibility.

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Exclusive Language

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Words like 'them' that create a distinction and can persuade by separating groups.

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Rhetorical Questions

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Rhetorical questions are questions that do not require and answer and are asked for effect only. They engage the audience and encourage them to consider the issue and accept the author's answer, or imply that the answer is so obvious that anyone who disagrees is foolish.

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Connotations

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The connotation is the emotional meaning associated with the word. Persuasive authors often choose their words carefully so that the connotation suits their purpose.

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Evidence

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Using evidence is very persuasive as it makes the reader see the author as knowledgeable and the argument as more logical or reliable.

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Attacks

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Attacks on opposing views, or the people who hold them, can persuade the audience by portraying views and beliefs which are contrary to the author's as foolish, dangerous, uncaring or deceitful. Using humor to make fun of these views can be particularly persuasive. Note: can offend or alienate the audience if overdone.

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Alliteration and Assonance

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The repetition of initial consonant sounds {alliteration) or vowel sounds (assonance) adds emphasis to major points and makes them more memorable.

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Imagery and Figurative Language

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Use of figurative language, metaphor and simile can paint a word picture for the audience, making the point visually and by comparison, or appeal to emotions.

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Analogy

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Analogy is a form of reasoning which compares one thing with another in order to make a particular point.

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Generalizations

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Make sweeping statements about a whole group, based on only one or two members of that group. These can be persuasive if the audience believes the generalization is appropriate, but can undermine argument if they do not.