Rhetoric vs. Sophistry — What's the Difference?

Rhetoric () is the art of persuasion, which along with grammar and logic (or dialectic – see Martianus Capella), is one of the three ancient arts of discourse. Rhetoric aims to study the techniques writers or speakers utilize to inform, persuade, or motivate particular audiences in specific situations.

Plausible but fallacious argumentation.

The art or study of using language effectively and persuasively.

A plausible but misleading or fallacious argument.

A treatise or book discussing this art.

The actions or arguments of a sophist.

Skill in using language effectively and persuasively.

(uncountable) Plausible yet fallacious argumentations or reasoning.

A style of speaking or writing, especially the language of a particular subject

(countable) An argument that seems plausible, but is fallacious or misleading, especially one devised deliberately to be so; a sophism.

Language that is elaborate, pretentious, insincere, or intellectually vacuous

The art or process of reasoning; logic.

Verbal communication; discourse.

The practice of a sophist; fallacious reasoning; reasoning sound in appearance only.

Synonym of rhetorical.

A deliberately invalid argument displaying ingenuity in reasoning in the hope of deceiving someone

The art of using language, especially public speaking, as a means to persuade.

Meaningless language with an exaggerated style intended to impress.

The art of composition; especially, elegant composition in prose.

Oratory; the art of speaking with propriety, elegance, and force.

Hence, artificial eloquence; fine language or declamation without conviction or earnest feeling.

Fig. : The power of persuasion or attraction; that which allures or charms.

Using language effectively to please or persuade

High flown style; excessive use of verbal ornamentation

Loud and confused and empty talk;

Study of the technique and rules for using language effectively (especially in public speaking)