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 firms that consistently earn investor confidence understand that trust isn’t created through persuasive marketing alone. — Ramesh Tambe, Forbes.com, 28 Sep. 2026

Although a federal judge found some of the NCAA’s arguments persuasive, the NCAA was denied a temporary restraining order. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 24 Sep. 2026

Though perhaps not for long, if our commentators, whose persuasive remarks are featured below, have anything to do with it. — Victoria Gomelsky, Robb Report, 21 Sep. 2026

Consider whether the interpretation is persuasive or the advice fits your circumstances. — Leo S. Lo, The Conversation, 18 Sep. 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