Definitions

persuasive

[per-swey-siv, -ziv] / pərˈsweɪ sɪv, -zɪv /

ADJECTIVE

effective, influential

Synonyms

STRONGEST

alluring cogent compelling conclusive convincing credible effective eloquent energetic forceful impressive influential inspiring logical plausible potent powerful valid

WEAK

actuating convictive effectual efficacious efficient enticing forcible impelling inducing inveigling luring moving pointed seductive slick smooth soft sell sound stimulating stringent strong swaying telling touching unctuous weighty wheedling winning

Antonyms

STRONGEST

implausible impotent improbable incapable incredible ineffective invalid unbelievable unlikely unreasonable weak

WEAK

dampening discouraging disheartening dissuasive ineffectual

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Its persuasive power seems more aimed at appealing to the sensibilities of the justices who, one could assume, wouldn’t want to hand over their papers, more than a real legal argument.

From Slate • Apr. 9, 2026

Although they can generate fluent and persuasive responses, they often struggle to reason through complicated questions.

From Science Daily • Mar. 17, 2026

The failure to articulate a persuasive and inspiring case not only weakens support at home, our diplomatic efforts overseas and our war-fighting capabilities.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 9, 2026

What do arguments in favor of mass demolition miss, and why are they persuasive anyway?

From Salon • Mar. 6, 2026

And the orator need know nothing of medicine himself, hmm? socrates: Then, when the rhetorician is more persuasive than the physician, the ignorant is more persuasive with the ignorant than he who has knowledge?

From "Words Like Loaded Pistols" by Sam Leith

Vocabulary lists containing persuasive

TEKS ELAR Academic Vocabulary List (5th-7th grades)

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 5

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

The New SAT: Words to Capture Tone

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!