The phrase "prevail on" is typically spelled as it sounds, with the first syllable rhyming with "bee" and the second syllable sounding like "vale". In IPA phonetic transcription, this would be represented as /prɪˈveɪl ɒn/. The word "prevail" means to succeed or be victorious, while "on" typically indicates a direction or continuation. Together, "prevail on" suggests that someone is successful in convincing or persuading another person to do something.
The phrase "prevail on" is a phrasal verb that encompasses the idea of persuading or convincing someone to do something. It implies a certain level of influence or success in convincing another person to comply with a request or to carry out an action. When one prevails on another individual, they are effectively using their powers of persuasion to sway them towards a certain course of action.
In a dictionary definition, "prevail on" can be described as the act of successfully convincing or persuading someone to do something against their initial inclination. It often entails appealing to the individual's reason, emotions, or desires in order to change their mind or behavior. This phrasal verb implies a level of determination or persistence from the persuader, as they exert effort in order to achieve their goal.
The term "prevail on" implies the attainment of a positive outcome for the persuader, as their efforts result in successfully influencing the other person's decision. It suggests that the persuader's arguments or motivations have stronger influence or weight over the initial resistance or reluctance of the other party.
Overall, "prevail on" signifies the act of utilizing persuasive techniques or reasons to overcome opposition or reluctance and achieve the desired result. It represents the ability to convincingly sway someone towards a certain action or viewpoint through effective communication and reasoning.
The word "prevail" has its origins in the Latin word "praevalere" which means "to be stronger" or "to have greater influence". The addition of the preposition "on" simply adds emphasis to the action of prevailing. In other words, when someone "prevails on" someone else, they succeed in persuading or convincing them to do something. The term "prevail on" can also be seen as an idiomatic expression that denotes one's ability to overcome resistance or opposition to achieve a desired outcome.