Words for Persuasive Writing
Persuasive writing earns its yes by combining specific evidence with verbs that show conviction. Cut hedges, lead with the strongest argument, and finish with the action you want the reader to take.
Words that signal conviction
Stating position
I argueI recommendthe right answer isthe case forthe strongest reason
Refuting
the counter-argument fails becausethe data points elsewherethis missesthe assumption breaks
Closing
the next step isI propose wehere's what to doapprove by
Evidence verbs that carry weight
Quantitative
measureddoubledreduced bytested againstoutperformed by
Qualitative
observeddocumentedvalidated withconfirmed bydemonstrated through
Before & after
Before
I think maybe we should consider possibly raising the price.
After
I recommend raising the price 12% in Q3. Three reasons follow.
Tips
- State the position in the first sentence.
- Lead with the strongest argument, not the most polite one.
- End with a concrete next step, not a question.