Diplomacy & Politics Glossary

A rhetorical device that compares two different things to clarify or persuade by highlighting similarities.

The aesthetic experience of awe mixed with terror that Edmund Burke linked to the sublime, influencing political rhetoric about power and authority.

Cadence is the rhythmic flow and modulation of a speaker's voice during speech delivery.

Winston Churchill’s use of stirring speeches and language to unify and motivate Britain during World War II.

The use of inspiring and resolute speeches by Winston Churchill to bolster British morale during World War II.

Using ambiguous or evasive language to mislead or avoid a direct answer during debate speeches or cross-examination.

Emotional appeals use feelings such as fear, hope, or empathy to influence an audience’s attitudes or behaviors during persuasion.

A rhetorical appeal that establishes the speaker's credibility and trustworthiness to persuade the audience.

A persuasive technique that establishes the speaker’s credibility and ethical character to influence the audience.

A delivery technique where speakers maintain visual connection with the audience to engage and build trust.

An appeal to logic and reason using facts and evidence to persuade an audience.

The use of metaphorical language to create vivid mental images that influence attitudes and decisions.

An emotional appeal aimed at influencing the audience's feelings to support an argument.

Methods such as ethos, pathos, and logos used to influence an audience’s beliefs or actions during a speech.

Public speaking ethos establishes the speaker's credibility and trustworthiness to enhance audience persuasion and engagement.

Using questions that do not require answers to emphasize a point or persuade an audience during speeches or writing.

Signposting uses verbal cues to guide the audience through the structure of a speech or argument.

A clear verbal indicator used by speakers to guide the audience through the structure of their arguments or speech points.

The deliberate use of verbal cues to guide listeners through the structure of a speech or argument.

The logical progression and connection of ideas within a speech to maintain clarity and persuasion.

A delegate's option to transfer remaining speaking time to a fellow delegate instead of to the chair or yielding time.