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

The correspondence that followed was equally persuasive, laying out the subjects the person identifying themselves as Gross intended to discuss with him, demonstrating what appeared to be deep, actual knowledge of Vilanch’s work. — Seth Abramovitch, HollywoodReporter, 18 Aug. 2026

Aside from Marta herself, a few persuasive factors recur in conversation with Zara’s collaborators. — Gaby Wood, Vogue, 17 Aug. 2026

Only two students from each state are accepted to compete in the tournament, which focused on persuasive speaking and took place at the University of Florida this spring. — Melinda Moore, Chicago Tribune, 13 Aug. 2026

In an era when luxury automotive partnerships often lead with branding, Louis Vuitton and Singer are selling a more traditional idea—craftsmanship becomes most persuasive when every tactile detail, far beyond the logo, carries the argument. — Michael Harley, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 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