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

That warning becomes even more persuasive when considered alongside the strategically adverse outcomes produced by extensive land campaigns in Vietnam, Afghanistan, and Iraq. — David A. Deptula, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026

Trump’s influence may be especially persuasive to undecided voters, according to American Pulse and Research Polling. — Rebecca Schneid, Time, 18 July 2026

Hedging is often said to make one less persuasive, but new research from Wharton marketing professor Jonah Berger shows how communicators can use it to their advantage. — Sheryl Estrada, Fortune, 15 July 2026

Your confidence is also persuasive today, but listening with an open mind will get you further than dominating the conversation. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 15 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