Definitions

persuade

[per-sweyd] / pərˈsweɪd /

VERB

cause to believe; convince to do

Synonyms

STRONGEST

advise assure cajole coax enlist entice exhort get impress incline induce influence prompt satisfy sway urge woo

STRONG

actuate affect allure blandish brainwash convert counsel draw impel incite inveigle lead move propagandize proselytize reason seduce sell soft sell stroke touch wheedle

WEAK

argue into bring around bring to senses gain confidence of lead to believe lead to do prevail upon proselyte talk into turn on to wear down win argument win over work over

Antonyms

STRONGEST

discourage dissuade fail halt prevent repel

STRONG

delay deter disenchant remain stay stop turn off

WEAK

hinder repress suppress

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.

"Matryoshka's impact is driven more by public perception than by its ability to persuade audiences online. It's a perception hack."

From Barron's • May 29, 2026

What can I do to persuade them to keep these stocks?

From MarketWatch • May 21, 2026

As Memorial Day weekend approaches, forecasts of plentiful sunshine may persuade many Southern Californians to strip down to their bathing suits — but researchers are warning of unsanitary waters at some local beaches.

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2026

The purveyors don’t have to persuade people to want their wares.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 18, 2026

Somehow, Jefferson was even able to persuade himself that he was beyond temptation and happily ensconced on his mountaintop for the duration.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis

Vocabulary lists containing persuade

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

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Argumentative Writing

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Argumentative Writing, List 1

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