Persuasive Key Terms

An appeal to logic.

A question not intended to elicit an answer but asked for rhetorical effect, often with an assumption that only one answer is possible. Asked in order to make a statement rather than to get an answer.

What is a rhetorical device through which writers identify differences between two subjects, places, persons, things or ideas.

What is an explicit appeal to the audience to take action, usually made in the conclusion of a persuasive speech.

The attitude of the writer or speaker towards the subject or audience.

A brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing or idea of historical, cultural, literary or political significance.

Framing an issue in its historical, social, cultural, and political relevance in society.

What is the emotional or motivational appeal; to persuade an audience by appealing to their identity, self-interest and emotions.

Using a word or phrase more than once to emphasize a key idea.

What is the ethical appeal; to convince an audience of the author’s credibility or character.