use rhetoric

Meanings

1. 1verbtransitive

   to speak or write in a way that is intended to persuade people, often using impressive language.

   Grammar: Takes an object: use rhetoric. 'Rhetoric' is uncountable, so no 'a' before it.

   Patterns

   • use rhetoric to + verb
   • use rhetoric about something
   • use empty rhetoric

   The politician used rhetoric to win over the crowd.

   She used powerful rhetoric in her speech about climate change.

   They accused the company of using empty rhetoric to avoid real change.

2. 2verbtransitiveformal

   to employ the art of speaking or writing effectively, especially in formal situations.

   Grammar: Often used in academic contexts about the study of persuasion.

   Patterns

   • use rhetoric effectively
   • use rhetoric in writing
   • study how to use rhetoric

   Students learn how to use rhetoric to make their essays more convincing.

   The lawyer used rhetoric skillfully to sway the jury.

   Good leaders know when to use rhetoric and when to speak plainly.

Common combinations

use empty rhetoric

The speech was full of empty rhetoric and no concrete plans.

use political rhetoric

Both sides used political rhetoric to attack each other.

use rhetoric to persuade

She used rhetoric to persuade the audience to donate.

Synonyms and how they differ

oratory

'Oratory' is the skill of making formal, impressive speeches; 'rhetoric' can also refer to the study of persuasion and is often used negatively.

eloquence

'Eloquence' is fluent, powerful speaking that people admire; 'rhetoric' can suggest language that is more showy than sincere.

Word family

rhetorical adjective

relating to rhetoric or to a question asked for effect, not for an answer.

rhetorician noun

a person who is skilled in rhetoric or studies it.

Commonly confused: use rhetoric or rhetoric?

Practice

Make it your own

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

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