eloquence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "eloquence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the quality of being fluent and persuasive in speaking or writing. Example: "Her eloquence during the debate captivated the audience and swayed their opinions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Her father, Naphtali Okello Elepu, a retired prison officer in his 70s, is sophistication and eloquence personified.

The Guardian

The simple eloquence of that vulnerable foot in its scuffed shoe reminds me of the profound eloquence of the cow's eye, the photograph with which Jane discovered her calling all those years ago as a student just out of the Wrens, alone and unsure of where life would take her.

The Guardian - Arts

And both spoke with such plain eloquence about these things that they won the trust of their electorates and, with it, the power to transform their nations and – in time – the world.

The Guardian

His recent biographies of of William Gladstone and Winston Churchill achieve "a unique combination of literary eloquence, psychological insight and feline political instinct" according to political biographer Ben Pimlott in the Telegraph.

The Guardian

The paper now says it regrets the error of not seeing its "momentous importance, timeless eloquence and lasting significance".

The Guardian

For others, Tyson's sadness and base impulses may not warrant such acclaim, but Saward makes his case with great eloquence.

The Guardian - Sport

Missouri lore has it that in 1899, the state's congressman Willard Duncan Vandiver averred in a speech, "Frothy eloquence neither convinces nor satisfies me.

The Guardian - Opinion

Monroe replied with typical eloquence.

The Guardian

His speech of eight years ago amounted to a pledge of allegiance to a United States of America a pledge given rare force by his eloquence, his poise and a sort of a post-racial self-confidence that promised to heal old divisions by rising loftily above them.Mr Obama in 2012 still carries a promise about him that race does not have to be the end of the argument, and that is no small thing at all.

The Economist

His economic views are sound; they are laid down with ability, precision, clearness, and are sustained by a kind of pointed and common-sense eloquence somewhat rare in his class.

The Economist

Second, to use his eloquence to persuade Americans that what he is doing is right.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "eloquence" to describe not just the beauty of language, but also its power to move and persuade an audience. Combine it with concrete examples to show, not just tell, its impact.

Common error

Avoid using "eloquence" to describe overly wordy or rambling speech. Eloquence implies clarity and conciseness, not just a large vocabulary or complex sentence structure.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "eloquence" is as a noun. It typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence, describing the quality of persuasive and effective communication. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the noun "eloquence" refers to the artistry and persuasiveness in speech or writing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and very common, often appearing in news and formal contexts. To use "eloquence" effectively, focus on conveying impact rather than just complex vocabulary. Synonyms such as "articulateness" and "fluency" can provide alternative shades of meaning. Remember that "eloquence" implies clarity and precision, differentiating it from mere verbosity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

articulateness

Focuses on the clarity and effectiveness of verbal expression.

fluency

Emphasizes the ease and smoothness of speech or writing.

persuasiveness

Highlights the ability to convince or influence others.

rhetorical skill

Specifically denotes expertise in the art of rhetoric.

expressiveness

Indicates the capacity to convey thoughts and feelings effectively.

oratory

Refers to the skill of public speaking, often formal and persuasive.

power of speech

Emphasizes the impact and influence of spoken words.

gift of gab

An informal term for the ability to speak easily and persuasively.

silver tongue

A metaphorical term for a person with a persuasive and charming way of speaking.

command of language

Highlights the comprehensive and skillful use of linguistic resources.

FAQs

How can I use "eloquence" in a sentence?

You can use "eloquence" to describe the quality of persuasive and effective communication. For example, "Her "eloquence" in the debate swayed many voters."

What are some synonyms for "eloquence"?

Alternatives to "eloquence" include "articulateness", "fluency", or "persuasiveness", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "eloquence" or "good speaking skills"?

"Eloquence" is a more sophisticated and impactful term than "good speaking skills". It emphasizes the artistry and persuasiveness of the communication.

What distinguishes "eloquence" from "rhetoric"?

"Rhetoric" is the art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, while "eloquence" is the quality of being fluent, forceful, and appropriate or elegant. While related, "eloquence" suggests a natural and moving quality, while rhetoric is a broader term encompassing techniques and strategies.