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Definition persuade in British English

persuade verb

[transitive] verb
/pə(r)ˈsweɪd/

Ways of persuading someone to do/not do something

a polite way of persuading someone

a polite and indirect way of persuading someone

an informal way of persuading someone when you really want them to do something

an informal way of persuading someone to make an effort to achieve something

a strong but polite way of persuading someone

a strong and direct way of persuading someone

a polite but forceful way of persuading someone not to do something

a polite way of persuading someone to do or not do something, usually when you are slightly annoyed with them

Examples:

You know, it might be better if you let Maggie drive from now on. You’re looking tired.

Why don’t you think about taking three weeks’ holiday instead of two? It might do you good.

Oh, go on, please come to the party! I don’t want to go without you.

Go on, try again. You nearly did it that time. ♦ Look, it’s a great opportunity and you may not get another chance – go for it!

We’d really like you to come with us to France. ♦ I think you should forget about the whole thing and just get on with doing your job.

I’d really prefer it if you didn’t put your feet on the sofa.

I would appreciate it if you would stop putting your rubbish in our bin.

1

to make someone agree to do something by giving them reasons why they should

Example

He did finally come with us, although it took a long time to persuade him.

Example

Nobody could persuade her to change her mind.

Synonyms and related words
1.1

to cause someone to do something by being a good reason for doing it

Example

What persuaded you to accept the job?

Synonyms and related words
2

to make someone believe that something is true

Example

Their argument failed to persuade me.

Example

I managed to persuade him that it was not his fault.

Example

There was no way she could persuade him of her innocence.

Synonyms and related words
Definition persuade in British English