C1noun formal 2K

Rhetoric

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈretərɪk/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈretərɪk/"]/

Meaning of Rhetoric

speech or writing that is intended to influence people, but that is not completely honest or sincere

In simple words: The art of using language effectively and persuasively.

Rhetoric in a sentence

• the rhetoric of political slogans
• Her speech was just empty rhetoric.
• His speech was dismissed as mere rhetoric by the opposition.
• Behind all the rhetoric, his relations with the army are tense.
• He was prepared to use militant rhetoric in attacking his opponents.
• Little has changed, despite the rhetoric about reform.
• official rhetoric on the virtues of large families

How to use Rhetoric

Used primarily in academic or political contexts. Avoid in casual conversations. Considered a higher-level vocabulary word.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'rhetoric' as 'retoric'—you create a 'retort' or clever response.

Related words

Collocations with Rhetoric

• empty
• mere
• fiery
• adopt
• employ
• engage in
• behind the rhetoric
• beneath the rhetoric
• despite the rhetoric

Synonyms for Rhetoric

• eloquence, oratory

Opposites of Rhetoric

• truth
• facts
• genuineness

Common mistakes with Rhetoric

• Confused with 'oratory' meaning spoken rhetoric.
• Used in informal settings where simpler terms would be better.
• Assuming it only refers to speech, not writing.

Frequently asked questions about Rhetoric

What does Rhetoric mean?

The art of using language effectively and persuasively.

What is the definition of Rhetoric?

speech or writing that is intended to influence people, but that is not completely honest or sincere

How do you use Rhetoric in a sentence?

the rhetoric of political slogans

Can you give another example of Rhetoric?

Her speech was just empty rhetoric.

What are synonyms for Rhetoric?

Common alternatives include eloquence, oratory.

What is the opposite of Rhetoric?

Opposite meanings include truth, facts, genuineness.

What words go with Rhetoric?

It commonly pairs with empty, mere, fiery, adopt, employ, engage in, behind the rhetoric, beneath the rhetoric, despite the rhetoric.

What are common mistakes when using Rhetoric?

Confused with 'oratory' meaning spoken rhetoric. Used in informal settings where simpler terms would be better. Assuming it only refers to speech, not writing.

How do you pronounce Rhetoric?

US: /["/ˈretərɪk/"]/, UK: /["/ˈretərɪk/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Rhetoric formal or informal?

"Rhetoric" is formal, so it fits professional, business, or academic conversations.

When should I use Rhetoric?

Used primarily in academic or political contexts. Avoid in casual conversations. Considered a higher-level vocabulary word.

What CEFR level is Rhetoric?

"Rhetoric" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.