persuasive

[per-swey-siv, -ziv]

adjective

1. able, fitted, or intended to persuade.

   a very persuasive argument.

   Synonyms: forceful, compelling, convincing

noun

1. something that persuades; inducement.

persuasive

/ pəˈsweɪsɪv /

adjective

1. having the power or ability to persuade; tending to persuade

   a persuasive salesman

Other Word Forms

• persuasively adverb
• persuasiveness noun
• nonpersuasive adjective
• nonpersuasively adverb
• nonpersuasiveness noun
• prepersuasive adjective
• unpersuasive adjective
• unpersuasively adverb
• unpersuasiveness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of persuasive¹

First recorded in 1580–90, persuasive is from the Medieval Latin word persuāsīvus. See persuasible, -ive

Example Sentences

And it included dicta — a nonbinding observation that can be cited as a “persuasive authority” in future litigation — that planted the seeds for preclearance’s demise.

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The author acknowledges the risk of anthropomorphizing but finds the totality of evidence persuasive.

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Grappling with the counterclaims would have made their assertions about the food environment more persuasive.

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He partnered with attorney Judson Graves, 77, known for his persuasive court performance, to create online courses to teach lawyers how to be entertaining as well as effective.

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"But if you have got persuasive arguments please present them because to date I have not heard them," he adds.

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Related Words

• alluring 
• cogent 
• compelling 
• conclusive 
• convincing 
• credible 
• effective 
• eloquent 
• energetic 
• forceful 
• impressive 
• influential 
• inspiring www.thesaurus.com
• logical 
• plausible 
• potent 
• powerful 
• valid