Rhetorical analysis of a print advertisement. He made no answer to the President's question, which had been rhetorical in any case. A rhetorical question, for example, is one used merely to make a point, with no response expected. Modern rhetorical criticism concerns how the rhetorical case or object persuades, defines, or constructs the audience. In modern terms, rhetoric includes, but it is not limited to, speeches, scientific discourse, pamphlets, literary work, works of art, and pictures. A rhetorical question is one which is asked in order to make a statement rather than to get an answer. Characterized by overelaborate or bombastic rhetoric. He grimaced slightly, obviously expecting no answer to his rhetorical question. Rhetoric of, concerned with, or having the nature of rhetoric. But nowadays if we say something is rhetorical, we usually mean that it’s only good for talking. The meaning of RHETORICAL is of, relating to, or concerned with the art of speaking or writing formally and effectively especially as a way to persuade or influence people. the art of effectively using language in speech or writing. Used for persuasive effect: a speech punctuated by rhetorical pauses. Rhetoric exaggerated language that is empty and meaningless; bombast. Learn more. language skillfully used. bombast. RHETORICAL definition: used for, belonging to, or concerned with mere style or effect, rather than truth, substance, or meaning. rhet•o•ric (ret′ ər ik), n. Definition of rhetorical adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Jan 20, 2026 · Part of or similar to rhetoric, the use of language as a means to persuade. If you went to school a hundred years ago, your English class would have been called Rhetoric. 1. verbal, stylistic, oratorical. 2. 3. Of or relating to rhetoric. Rhetoric is the art of written or spoken communication. rhe•tor′i•cal•ness n. The meaning of RHETORICAL is of, relating to, or concerned with the art of speaking or writing formally and effectively especially as a way to persuade or influence people. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more. Part of or similar to rhetoric, which is the use of language as a means to persuade. Rhetorical speech or writing is intended to seem important or influence people: 2. Rhetorical…. A rhetorical question is one used merely to make a point, with no response expected. See examples of rhetorical used in a sentence. RHETORICAL definition: 1. . myya, 3dxl, zxf0r, pv5x, nhhcy, ty7r, 94tn, g6i6g, ooin, daii,