Persuade

Definition

Persuade is a verb that means to convince someone to do or believe something through reasoning, argument, or enticement. It involves influencing someone’s decisions or opinions.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pɚˈsweɪd/
• Respelling: per-SWAYD

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pəˈsweɪd/
• Respelling: puh-SWAYD

Etymology

The word "persuade" originates from the Latin "persuadere," meaning "to advise or urge." It is composed of "per-" (through) and "suadere" (to advise or recommend). The term entered Middle English through Old French "persuader."

Derivatives

• Persuasion (noun)
• Persuasive (adjective)
• Persuadable (adjective)
• Persuader (noun)
• Persuasively (adverb)

Synonyms

• Convince
• Influence
• Urge

Antonyms

• Dissuade
• Discourage
• Prevent

Usage

The term "persuade" is commonly used in contexts involving convincing or influencing someone. Examples include "She persuaded him to join the team" and "He was persuaded by her argument."

Related Terms

• Convince: To cause someone to believe firmly in the truth of something.
• Influence: The power to affect someone’s behavior or decisions.
• Dissuade: To discourage someone from taking a particular action.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To convince someone to do something: Refers to influencing a person’s actions or decisions.
  • Example: "She persuaded her friend to stay for dinner."
• To convince someone to believe something: Refers to influencing someone’s opinions or beliefs.
  • Example: "The lawyer persuaded the jury of his client’s innocence."