Persuasive Techniques Flashcards
Symbols
Symbols are words, places, images, songs, etc. that represent something else.
Example: A white dove traditionally symbolizes peace.
Hyperbole
Hyperbole is another word for an extreme exaggeration.
Example: Our hot dogs are the tastiest in the world.
Fear
Sometimes, media makes us afraid that if we don’t pay attention, something bad could happen.
Example: Buy this alarm, or your car will be stolen!
Humor
Humor is making someone laugh.
Example: Funny dogs in a commercial to advertise dog food.
The Big Lie
Sometimes, media doesn’t tell the truth.
Example: Sugar-Crunch Cereal offers a nutritional way to start your day.
Testimonials
Testimonials are using famous people to sell products and ideas.
Example: A hockey star uses a certain stick, so I should too.
Repetition
Repetition is constant bombardment of an idea or product.
Example: Having a commercial play in heavy rotation.
Name Calling
Name Calling is making fun of others to sell something.
Example: The new kid is strange because he doesn’t eat a certain kind of candy bar.
Flattery
Flattery is complimenting someone to force them to pay attention.
Example: The cool and smart kids eat that kind of candy bar.
Bribery
Bribery is offering something we want.
Example: Buy one, get one free
Bandwagon
This technique implies that everyone else is involved, so why not you?
Example: All the cool kids wear this brand of jeans. Shouldn’t you?
Warm and Fuzzy
Warm and Fuzzy is the technique that uses cute images to help sell a product.
Example: Those cute cats love that fabric softener, so I will too.
Beautiful people
Good looking models make us believe we can look like them.
Example: I’ll look just like her if I wear that brand of lip gloss.
Plain Folks
People just like us use the product.
Example: That guy looks just like me, so I should use his product.
Scientific Evidence
Scientific Evidence are stats and charts that persuade us that something is worthwhile.
Example: Nine of ten teachers surveyed that children should get at least eight hours of sleep a night if they are going to do well in school.
