Persuasive Techniques
We use persuasive language to convince others to agree with our
facts, share our values, accept our arguments and conclusions as well as
adopt our way of thinking. Hence, there are many ways to persuade
people.
First, it is important to note that there are modes of persuasion:
1. Ethos
2. Pathos
3. Logos
From these modes of persuasion, one can utilize different skills in
his/her writing which are persuasive techniques.
1. Appeals
This can be emotions, fears, desire to fit in, to be accepted, to be
loved etc. To appeal to an audience/listener one must take into
consideration the topic/issue/situation that will be spoken about.
2. Evidence
Using evidence is very persuasive as it makes the reader/listener
see the arguments as more reliable and logical. In addition, it also
allows the presenter to be seen as a knowledgeable as research was
done.
3. Counter Arguments
The counterargument is the opposing argument to the one you are
writing about. You include counterarguments in your writing to
form a rebuttal. A rebuttal is where you explain why your
position is stronger than the counterargument. When incorporating
counterarguments in your essay, you will need to know the
counterargument's claims and reasons. For example, in an essay
about whether teachers should assign homework, you take the
position that teachers should not give homework. The
counterargument is that teachers should assign homework.
4. Rhetorical Questions
These are questions that do not require an answer; they are asked
for effect only. These questions also engage the audience and
encourage them to consider the issue/situation and accept the
writer’s point. In addition, these questions imply that the answer is
obvious; therefore, if anyone disagrees would be considered
foolish.
5. Connotations
This is the emotional meaning associated with the word.
Persuasive writers often choose their words carefully so that the
connotation suits their purpose. For example, 'Kill' and 'Slaughter'
both mean the same thing, but the word 'slaughter' has a different
connotation to 'kill', as it causes the audience to imagine that the
act was particularly horrific.
6. Analogy
This is a form of reasoning which compares one thing with another
to make a particular point.
7. Generalizations
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.
8. Humor
This can be persuasive by dismissing opposing views, providing a
more engaging and friendly tone, and sway an audience by having
them enter the joke.
9. Formal Language
This can make the author sound knowledgeable while removing
emotion from the issue. This can make the argument sound
reasonable and rational, and the contention seem balanced.
10. Repetition
By repeating letters, words and phrases the author can reinforce an
argument and ensure that the point of view being made stays in an
audience's/reader’s/listener’s mind.
11. Hyperbole
The use of hyperbole emphasizes points by exaggerating. lt can be
used to mock opposing opinions, as a shock tactics technique.
12. Alliteration and Assonance
The repetition of initial consonant sounds (alliteration) or vowel
sounds (assonance) adds emphasis to major points and makes them
more memorable.
13. Metaphor and Similes (please do additional reading)
14. Images
