What Does Rhetorical Mean?

The word 'rhetorical' can mean a few things, it really depends on the context that it's being used in. For example, if you were to write a persuasive letter in order to try and keep a school open, or if you were trying to produce a compelling essay to prove a particular point, this all points to the use of rhetoric in your written work.

Another use is in the form of a rhetorical question - something that we've all used and been faced with from time to time. An example could be if your favorite food is ice cream, and if you are walking through town with your best friend. Let's imagine she spots an ice cream van, and then proceeds to ask if you would like to get some ice cream. Sarcastically, you reply and say 'what do you think?'

This is just one of the ways a rhetorical question is used, as it isn't intended to be answered by the person you're having a conversation with. It's commonly used to make a point, and it relates to the use of persuasive language as it is frequently seen in advertising. Known as a form of direct-address technique, copywriters and marketing agencies make sure that campaigns ask you questions about your purchasing preferences, helping you to realize whether or not you're being a savvy consumer.

Studying the English language can offer so many brilliant opportunities. Who knows, it might also enhance your rhetoric in the process too, making you some sort of a makeshift wordsmith.

It simply means that you know the answer to the question you are asking.

The word "rhetorical" is an adjective that refers to something as relating to or of rhetoric. It refers to something as being characterised by bombastic or over elaborate rhetoric. Rhetorical is also referred to something as being used for a kind of persuasive effect. The word rhetorical can be defined as "flowery in speech" or "wordy" and its antonym is "concise". The word rhetorical is the adjective form of the noun rhetoric which refers to the study or art of using language persuasively and effectively. It refers to the skill of a person with language.