Vocabulary Spotlight
Cajole
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition: To persuade someone to do something by flattery or gentle pleading.
“She managed to cajole her friend into joining the fitness class with her.”
Pronunciation
[kuh-johl]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Entice
Persuade
Wheedle
Sweet-talk
Antonyms
Force
Repel
Discourage
Dissuade
Related Words
Wheedling (noun)
Flattery (noun)
Word Origin
“Cajole” originates from the French “cajoler,” meaning “to coax or chatter,” which initially referred to caging birds. By the mid-17th century, it came to signify persuading someone through flattery or gentle urging.
Word Family
Verb: Cajole – To persuade gently or through flattery.
Noun: Cajolery – The act of persuading by flattery.
Adjective: Cajoling – In the act of coaxing or persuading gently.
Mnemonics
Clever And Jovial Offers Lure Effortlessly
This mnemonic highlights that cajoling involves gently persuading or flattering to get what you want.
Industry-specific Usage
Sales
In sales, cajoling may involve gently persuading customers to make a purchase by highlighting benefits in a friendly or complimentary way.
Parenting
In parenting, cajoling is often used to encourage children to complete tasks or chores by framing them positively or with incentives.
Negotiation
In negotiations, cajoling can be a technique to persuade the other party by appealing to their emotions or interests subtly.
In Context
In everyday situations, cajoling is often used among friends or family to convince someone to join an activity or favor without force.
In workplaces, cajoling can be a useful strategy for managers to gain team cooperation without creating a tense environment.
In education, teachers might cajole reluctant students into participating by praising their efforts or promising small rewards.