Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The deliberate decisions made by an author regarding language use, structure, tone, and persuasive techniques in order to effectively communicate their message.
Related terms
Ethos (Ethical Appeal): An appeal based on the credibility and trustworthiness of the speaker/writer.
Logos (Logical Appeal): An appeal based on logical reasoning and evidence presented to support an argument.
Pathos (Emotional Appeal): An appeal that aims to evoke emotions in the audience to persuade or convince them.