Language of Persuasion

Language of Persuasion: Powerful Words and Phrases to Influence and Convince

Hello English learners! Welcome to a new lesson. Persuasion is a vital communication skill. Whether you are writing an essay, giving a presentation, negotiating at work, or simply trying to convince a friend to see your point of view, the language of persuasion helps you express your ideas clearly and convincingly.

Using persuasive words and phrases allows you to:

✔ strengthen your arguments

✔ create emotional connection with your audience

✔ guide listeners or readers towards your opinion

✔ make your English sound more natural and sophisticated

This type of language is especially important in Cambridge exams, where examiners look for confident, well-supported arguments and varied linking devices.

Let’s explore some useful persuasive expressions you can start using today.

Linking Words for Persuasion

These expressions help you emphasise certainty, highlight evidence, and strengthen your message.

Of course

Used to show that something is obvious or naturally expected.

Of course, investing in your education is one of the smartest decisions you can make for your future.
Of course, choosing a reliable service saves both time and effort.

Clearly

Used when something is obvious or easy to understand.

Clearly, regular exercise improves both physical and mental health.
Clearly, this new policy will benefit employees and employers alike.

Evidently

Used when facts or evidence strongly support a statement.

Evidently, students who practise regularly achieve better results.
Evidently, early action helps prevent serious problems later.

Surely

Used to appeal to logic or shared understanding.

Surely, protecting the environment should be everyone’s responsibility.
Surely, this solution offers clear advantages over previous methods.

Indeed

Used to confirm or strengthen a statement.

Indeed, research shows that bilingual learners often develop stronger cognitive skills.
Indeed, customer feedback demonstrates the effectiveness of the programme.

Undoubtedly

Used to express strong certainty.

Undoubtedly, teamwork plays a crucial role in success.
Undoubtedly, technology has transformed modern education.

Certainly

Used to show confidence and reassurance.

Certainly, developing strong communication skills improves career opportunities.
Certainly, this strategy can lead to long-term improvement.

For this reason

Used to introduce logical justification.

Our method focuses on practical communication; for this reason, students gain confidence quickly.
The company prioritises customer satisfaction; for this reason, it enjoys strong loyalty.

Besides

Used to add an extra supporting point.

This course improves grammar accuracy; besides, it develops speaking fluency.
Public transport reduces traffic congestion; besides, it helps protect the environment.

Phrases to Persuade and Influence

These expressions are particularly useful in essays, presentations, proposals, and discussions.

I encourage you to…

Used to gently guide or recommend action.

I encourage you to practise English daily to improve fluency.
I encourage you to consider alternative viewpoints before making a decision.

Consider the benefits of…

Used to introduce logical reasoning.

Consider the benefits of learning a second language for career development.
Consider the benefits of regular exercise for both physical and mental health.

I firmly believe that…

Used to express strong personal conviction.

I firmly believe that education is the key to long-term success.
I firmly believe that technology should support, not replace, traditional learning.

It’s in your best interest to…

Used when suggesting something beneficial to the listener.

It’s in your best interest to develop strong digital skills in today’s workplace.
It’s in your best interest to plan ahead when preparing for exams.

Imagine the possibility of…

Used to create emotional and imaginative appeal.

Imagine the possibility of communicating confidently with people from around the world.
Imagine the possibility of achieving your career goals through improved language skills.

Let me paint a picture for you…

Used to create vivid persuasive imagery.

Let me paint a picture for you: a classroom where students feel confident, motivated, and engaged in learning.
Let me paint a picture for you: a workplace where clear communication leads to fewer misunderstandings and greater success.

You won’t want to miss out on…

Used to create urgency or excitement.

You won’t want to miss out on opportunities to practise speaking with native speakers.
You won’t want to miss out on learning skills that can shape your future career.

The evidence clearly shows…

Used to support arguments with facts.

The evidence clearly shows that reading regularly improves vocabulary.
The evidence clearly shows that active learning increases student engagement.

Have you ever thought about…?

Used to engage the reader and encourage reflection.

Have you ever thought about how learning English can open doors to international opportunities?
Have you ever thought about the advantages of studying abroad?

What would happen if…?

Used to encourage forward thinking.

What would happen if more schools focused on practical communication skills?
What would happen if businesses invested more in employee training?

Isn’t it time we…?

Used to suggest action politely but persuasively.

Isn’t it time we prioritised lifelong learning?
Isn’t it time we adopted healthier study habits?

I must stress…

Used to emphasise importance or urgency.

I must stress the importance of consistent practice when learning a language.
I must stress the value of preparing carefully for exams.

This cannot be overstated…

Used for strong emphasis.

This cannot be overstated: communication skills are essential in modern society.
This cannot be overstated: motivation is a key factor in successful learning.

Final Tip for Learners

When trying to persuade someone, avoid repeating simple phrases like I think. Instead, vary your language using persuasive expressions such as:

I firmly believe…
The evidence clearly shows…
It’s in your best interest to…
Surely, it is clear that…

Using varied language of persuasion makes your English sound more confident, natural, and academically advanced.

Published by My Lingua Academy on 24 Feb 202524 Feb 2025