persuasive

adjective

per·​sua·​sive pər-ˈswā-siv 

-ziv

: tending to persuade

persuasively adverb

persuasiveness noun

Synonyms of persuasive

• compelling
• convincing
• conclusive
• strong

Examples of persuasive in a Sentence

We weren't shown any persuasive evidence that he had committed the crime.

a persuasive argument for increasing funding of the city's library system

Recent Examples on the Web

But, said the team, more persuasive models made more inaccurate claims—although this doesn't mean that inaccurate claims are more persuasive than accurate ones. — Emma Woollacott, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026

Some persuasive Denver influencers are paying attention and demanding change. — Elaine Gantz Berman, Denver Post, 27 July 2026

That imagery is complemented by persuasive period design elements, and an original score by Hettarher that encompasses some wordless choral passages. — Dennis Harvey, Variety, 26 July 2026

Every Leeds supporter will be crossing their fingers that the hierarchy prove persuasive — and that Trafford offers their club a long-term solution in goal. — Beren Cross, New York Times, 24 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for persuasive

• abrasive
• invasive
• pervasive
• noninvasive
• unpersuasive

Kids Definition

persuasive

adjective

per·​sua·​sive pər-ˈswā-siv 

-ziv

: tending to persuade

a persuasive argument

persuasively adverb

persuasiveness noun