sway the reader

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sway the reader" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the influence or persuasion of a reader's opinion or feelings through writing. Example: "The author skillfully sways the reader with compelling arguments and emotional appeals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Wood compels, but he won't sway the reader.

The New York Times - Books

Discuss as a group how you think these adjectives sway the reader's opinion of the events.

The New York Times

Often the Wikipedia changes appear to have been made to make the incidents seem less severe than they may actually have been, or to add context intended to sway the reader's opinion on the event.

Independent

The arguments sway the reader to conclude that waste management and water treatment technology can be used better to reduce the risk to our water supplies.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Articles were coded as neutral if the article stated the facts in an objective way and did not give information which might sway the reader's perspective on mental illness.

BMC Psychiatry

A persuasive essay is designed to sway the reader to adopt your point of view about a topic.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Such features include, but are not limited to, types of information provided, the style of writing, the tone and manner in which the writer's opinion is given (including humor, sarcasm, etc)., the review's objectivity or subjectivity, how much information about the product is "given away," the effectiveness of the review in swaying the reader, etc.

The New York Times

The winner is declared based on who has swayed the most readers -- so if you want your side to win, your best bet is sending the arguments to people who haven't formed an opinion yet!

Huffington Post

Perhaps this data will sway the dissenters, although as regular readers will know, this blogger doubts that QE3 will have much of an effect on the real economy.

The Economist

Does that sway the voting?

The Guardian - Opinion

Did anonymous campaign money sway the outcome?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use strong evidence and logical reasoning when attempting to “sway the reader”. Emotional appeals can be effective, but should be used judiciously and ethically.

Common error

Don't depend solely on emotional appeals to “sway the reader”. Back up your assertions with facts, data, and credible sources to build a stronger, more persuasive argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase “sway the reader” functions as a verb phrase indicating an action performed by a writer or communicator with the intention of influencing the reader's thoughts or feelings. As Ludwig AI shows, it's commonly used in contexts where persuasion is the goal.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase “sway the reader” is a grammatically correct and usable expression signifying an attempt to influence or persuade a reader's opinion. Ludwig AI analysis reveals that it is most frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts. While not as common as alternatives like "persuade the reader" or "influence the reader's opinion", its usage is appropriate across a range of writing styles. When employing this phrase, it is advisable to support arguments with credible evidence and avoid over-reliance on emotional manipulation. The expert rating confirms its consistent and appropriate application in various reputable sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

persuade the reader

Emphasizes convincing the reader through reasoning or argument.

convince the reader

Focuses on solidifying the reader's belief in a particular point of view.

influence the reader's opinion

Highlights the act of affecting the reader's viewpoint without necessarily implying complete agreement.

shape the reader's perception

Highlights forming the reader's understanding of a subject.

affect the reader

Indicates a broader impact on the reader, including emotional responses.

guide the reader

Focuses on leading the reader through information or an argument in a clear direction.

win over the reader

Implies converting a skeptical or opposing reader to one's own viewpoint.

draw the reader in

Emphasizes attracting and captivating the reader's attention.

manipulate the reader

Suggests using underhanded tactics to control the reader's understanding.

captivate the reader

Focuses on holding the reader's attention and interest.

FAQs

What does it mean to “sway the reader”?

To “sway the reader” means to influence their opinion or perspective on a particular topic through writing or communication.

How can I effectively “sway the reader” in an essay?

To effectively “sway the reader” in an essay, present clear arguments, provide credible evidence, and use persuasive language. Strong writing skills are essential.

What is a synonym for “sway the reader”?

A synonym for “sway the reader” is "persuade the reader", which also implies influencing someone's opinion.

Is it ethical to try to “sway the reader”?

Whether it's ethical to “sway the reader” depends on the methods used. Using facts and reasoned arguments is ethical, while manipulation or misinformation is not.