Persuasive language helps us explain our opinions and encourage someone to see things our way. We can use it to suggest a better option, give reasons, or draw attention to benefits and problems.
Persuading someone
Expressions such as “Surely it’s better to …”, “Don’t you think …?” and “Wouldn’t it be worth trying …?” invite the listener to agree or consider a suggestion. Questions can make advice sound less direct. “You have to admit that …” is stronger and puts more pressure on the listener to agree.
Giving reasons and explaining a point
Expressions such as “The main reason is …”, “The thing is …” and “What you’ve got to remember is …” introduce explanations or highlight information we want the listener to consider. They help support an opinion with a reason.
Highlighting positive points
Expressions such as “The best thing about it is …” and “One of the main advantages is …” focus on benefits. They help us show why an idea is useful or worth trying.
Highlighting negative points
Expressions such as “The trouble with that is …” and “What worries me most is …” draw attention to problems or concerns. They help us explain why an idea might need changing or reconsidering.
These expressions often work together: “Wouldn’t it be worth trying a basic phone? The best thing about it is that she could contact you without being distracted by games.”
Read the examples of language and choose the type of language.
Drag the words into the correct gaps.