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Showing results for persuade.
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.

The Gulf state has begun a campaign to persuade the U.S. and allies in Europe and Asia to open the waterway by any means necessary.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

Lawyers for the companies have already vowed to appeal, insisting that they can persuade higher courts to nix these awards as a misapplication of the law.

From Slate • Mar. 30, 2026

"They are very intent on trying to win the soft influence battle to try and persuade politicians to go easy on them."

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

“He could persuade the networks to take a risk on something risky.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 25, 2026

Bessie now endeavoured to persuade her to take a sedative draught: she succeeded with difficulty.

From "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Brontë

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.