What is rhetoric?

Question

I was under the impression that it was used to describe something negatively. Like saying someone's explanation sounds like complete bullshit (rhetoric) to me. Am I on the right track or is it something totally opposite. Please give examples

so in a way, it decribes the use of false arguments to persuade someone that this way is so. Like false ads for cigarettes? The young are persuaded by believing it's cool to smoke, the older thinks it eases stress. All the while, smoking will end up killing ya.

Answer 1

Your understanding the meaning of the word rhetoric is quite correct.If you refer to fine-sounding speech or writing as rhetoric,you disapprove of it because it is meant to convince and impress people but may lack sincerity and honesty..
Moreover, rhetoric is the skill or art of using language effectively.

Answer 2

In common media and conversation, "rhetoric" does have a negative connontation and people often use it to describe writing or talking that doesn't have much substance or sincerity. For instance, people might describe a politicians empty promises as "mere rhetoric".

Academically, "rhetoric" has several definitions. The one that always sticks with me is "the use of symbols to impart meaning on a pattern". Rhetoric is really communication in all its forms - writing, speaking, even body language can be considered rhetoric. You never stop using rhetoric - even sitting still and being silent communicates something (ie, that you are bored or introverted or not feeling well or something).

Answer 3

Rhetoric refers to the use and study of persuasive writing, whether it is negative or positive. There are many different types, and they can be used in a good way, but are not neccessary. For example, one could say
"Eating grass is good for you. Some say it is not, but it is from the Earth and almost everything natural is good for you."
In this example, the author is trying to sway the reader to eat grass, or at least trying to show that it is okay, with a false argument. There are many other ways to express this, but not enough time or space.

Answer 4

rhet-o-ric - Noun - The art of persuasive or effective speech or writing; declamation; artificial eloquence or sophistry; exaggerated oratory.

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So it is neither positive or negative. It is just an exaggerated way of expression.

Answer 5

its something that's not supposed to be answered like "Are you stupid?"