take some persuading

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take some persuading" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone needs to be convinced or encouraged to agree to something. Example: "She was hesitant about joining the project, and it took some persuading to get her on board."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Georgians may take some persuading.

The Economist

Might take some persuading to join Moyes' stuttering side.

Independent

But with inflation running at twice its target, the Bank will take some persuading.

The Guardian - Opinion

It can happen like that, although during the first time the elbow can take some persuading.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They will take some persuading that picking two spinners is the best option this time round.

The Guardian - Sport

He has two years to run on his deal and might take some persuading to return to Europe.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Bowie took some persuading, though.

The Guardian

So he took some persuading?

The Guardian

It works, but Stanley took some persuading.

The Guardian - Film

Bragg admitted he took some persuading to do the show.

Independent

The studio, Sony, took some persuading of the basic idea.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take some persuading", ensure the context clearly indicates who needs persuading and about what. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "take some persuading" when the situation implies strong opposition or deeply held beliefs. This phrase suggests mild reluctance rather than firm disagreement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take some persuading" functions as a verb phrase indicating that someone or something is not immediately willing or agreeable and requires encouragement or convincing to comply. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "take some persuading" effectively conveys the idea that someone requires encouragement or convincing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media. While it’s suitable for various contexts, it’s crucial to understand the subtle resistance it implies. Consider alternatives like "require some convincing" or "need a bit of coaxing" to tailor your message accurately and avoid misrepresenting the level of opposition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

require some convincing

Emphasizes the necessity of providing evidence or arguments to change someone's mind.

take significant convincing

Emphasizes that the persuasion needed is substantial.

need a bit of coaxing

Suggests a gentle and patient approach to encourage someone.

be hard to convince

Highlights the difficulty in changing someone's opinion or decision.

not easily swayed

Indicates a firm stance and resistance to external influence.

need considerable encouragement

Specifies that more than usual encouragement is required.

prove difficult to influence

Focuses on the challenge of affecting someone's behavior or choices.

resist persuasion

Highlights active opposition to being convinced.

be resistant to change

Highlights an inherent opposition to adopting new ideas or methods.

demand a lot of justification

Suggests the need for extensive reasoning and validation.

FAQs

How can I use "take some persuading" in a sentence?

Use "take some persuading" to indicate that someone requires encouragement or convincing to agree with something. For example, "He might "take some persuading" to join the team".

What does "take some persuading" mean?

"Take some persuading" means that someone is hesitant or reluctant and needs to be convinced or encouraged to do something.

Which is more appropriate: "take some persuading" or "require some convincing"?

Both phrases are correct, but "require some convincing" might be preferred in more formal contexts, while "take some persuading" is generally suitable for everyday use.

What are some alternatives to ""take some persuading""?

Alternatives include "need a bit of coaxing", "require some convincing", or "not easily swayed", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.