Pronunciation: [ɹɛtˈɒɹɪkə͡l] (IPA) 
Rhetorical is spelled: /rɪˈtɒrɪkl/ - it starts with the "r" sound, followed by the short "i" sound, "t" sound, "aw" sound, "r" sound, "i" sound, "k" sound, and "l" sound. This word is derived from the Greek word rhētorikós, meaning "of or belonging to public speaking". The spelling of rhetorical can be a bit tricky for non-native English speakers, as there are a few silent letters, but with practice, it can be easily mastered.
The term "rhetorical" refers to the use of language or speech that aims to persuade, influence, or evoke an emotional response from an audience. Derived from the Greek word "rhetorikos," which means "art of oratory," rhetoric involves the skillful use of words, figures of speech, and other literary devices to communicate effectively and make a persuasive impact.
In a general sense, "rhetorical" describes anything related to or characteristic of rhetoric. It pertains to the art of using language strategically to achieve a desired effect, often in a spoken or written communication. Rhetorical devices can include techniques such as repetition, parallelism, hyperbole, irony, and various forms of figurative language, all of which enhance the persuasiveness and effectiveness of a message.
Moreover, the adjective "rhetorical" can describe a question, statement, or argument that is primarily intended to make a point or stimulate thought rather than receive an answer or engage in a genuine dialogue. This form of rhetoric, known as a "rhetorical question" or a "rhetorical statement," is designed to provoke contemplation or emphasize a specific point without expecting a response from the listener or reader.
Furthermore, the term "rhetorical" may also refer to a person's speaking or writing style that is deliberate, captivating, and influential. It highlights the artful arrangement of words and the skillful manipulation of language to engage, persuade, or entertain an audience. Overall, the concept of "rhetorical" encompasses the strategic and deliberate use of language and communication techniques to achieve a persuasive or impactful effect.
Pert. to rhetoric; persuasive; figurative.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word rhetorical comes from the Greek word rhetorikos which means skilled in speaking or oratorical. It is derived from the Greek word rhetor, meaning public speaker or orator. The term was primarily used in ancient Greece to describe the art of persuasive speechmaking, which was highly valued and taught as an intellectual discipline. The Greek word rhetorikos was later adopted into Latin as rhetoricus, and eventually, the term made its way into English as rhetorical.
