Final answer:
The two types of language used in persuasive definitions are emotive language, which aims to elicit emotions, and descriptive language, which provides neutral, fact-based information. Understanding these helps in both analyzing persuasive texts and in effectively communicating persuasively.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two primary types of language used in persuasive definitions are emotive language and descriptive language. Emotive language is designed to elicit an emotional response from the audience. It works by using words that convey strong sentiments to affect the audience's feelings and ultimately sway their opinions or actions.
For example, using words like 'devastating' or 'thrilling' can strongly influence the listener's emotions. On the other hand, descriptive language provides factual and neutral descriptions aimed at informing the reader or listener, without the emotional aspect that emotive language carries. It is used to build credibility and a sense of rationale around the subject, possibly through statistics, data, or concrete evidence.
Understanding the use of these language types is crucial in both analyzing persuasive texts and generating effective persuasive communication ourselves. Rhetorical choices and strategies are integral to every persuasive definition, and being aware of them enhances our own communicative skills. By critically evaluating these elements, one can discern whether language is used to empower or manipulate, and how it constructs our understanding of culture and society.