rhetorically speaking

Meaning

1. 1phrasefixed phraseformal

   Looking at something in terms of how it persuades or sounds, rather than whether it is true or practical.

   Grammar: Often opens a sentence as a comment: rhetorically speaking, the plan is strong.

   Patterns

   • rhetorically speaking, clause

   Rhetorically speaking, the speech was a triumph, even if the facts were thin.

   Rhetorically speaking, a short slogan works better than a long argument.

   The ad is clever rhetorically speaking, but it does not tell you the price.

Common combinations

rhetorically speaking, the speech

Rhetorically speaking, the speech was strong.

clever rhetorically speaking

The ad is clever rhetorically speaking.

rhetorically speaking, a slogan

Rhetorically speaking, a slogan must be short.

effective rhetorically speaking

The argument is effective rhetorically speaking.

rhetorically speaking, it

Rhetorically speaking, it hits the right notes.

Synonyms and how they differ

as a matter of style

As a matter of style is plainer and covers writing choices, but it does not stress persuasion.

in terms of persuasion

In terms of persuasion is a clear modern phrase that says the same thing in more everyday words.

figuratively speaking

Figuratively speaking means not literally, which is a different point from how convincing something sounds.

theoretically speaking

Theoretically speaking is about what could be true in theory, not about persuasive effect.

Opposites

Word family

rhetoric noun

the art of persuasive speaking or writing

rhetorical adjective

relating to persuasive language

rhetorically adverb

in a way that concerns persuasive effect

rhetorician noun

a person skilled in rhetoric

Commonly confused: rhetorically speaking or rhetorical question?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “rhetorically speaking”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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