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 LA Alliance recently tried unsuccessfully last year to persuade a judge to put the city’s homelessness system into receivership, arguing that it has been failing the city’s most vulnerable population.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 11, 2026

Patti conceded that given how much they’ve rallied, chip stocks needed a breather, and worries about Iran and rising inflation and interest rates helped persuade investors to sell some of their winners.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 10, 2026

He told Spotlight that Bishop McClay asked him to try to persuade the woman to retract her statement.

From BBC • Jun. 8, 2026

Thomas wanted the court to hear them but failed to persuade his colleagues to agree.

From Slate • Jun. 2, 2026

Even on such a romantic day as this I could not persuade myself of that.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom

Vocabulary lists containing persuade

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

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!

Argumentative Writing

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!

Argumentative Writing, List 1

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!