Wheedling

Wheedling describes the act of using flattering or persuasive speech to coax someone into doing something or giving you something. It often involves charm, insincere compliments, or subtle manipulation to achieve a desired outcome. The goal is to gain favor or affection to overcome resistance or obtain a concession. wheedling attempts to bypass direct requests with a focus on appealing to the target's ego or emotions. It can sometimes carry a negative connotation, suggesting an underlying dishonesty or attempt to deceive. Success lies in the ability to artfully present a request in a way that makes it difficult for the recipient to refuse or recognize the true nature of the attempt. It can be a subtle blend of persuasion and insincerity.

Wheedling meaning with examples

• The child, employing a wheedling tone, begged her mother for another cookie, showering her with praise about her baking skills. She knew this tactic usually worked to bend her mother's will. This display used flattery and gentle coercion to achieve her objective, a typical example of effective manipulation through sweet talk.
• He tried a wheedling approach to get a raise, complimenting his boss on his management style and the company's success. He hoped his calculated flattery would soften his boss's stance on compensation. This involved using a charm-offensive with carefully selected words.
• The salesperson, using a wheedling voice, promised the customer an amazing deal on the car, emphasizing its features and benefits. He used the car’s specifications to entice the hesitant prospect, creating a tempting scenario. The promise was meant to lower the customer’s defenses with deceptive words.
• The lawyer used a wheedling technique to gain the jury's sympathy, painting the defendant as a victim of circumstance. He carefully used words that created empathy, hoping to sway the jury and win the case. This involved carefully crafted language to invoke sympathy and make the case favorable.
• Sarah was known for her wheedling requests with her friends to borrow their belongings, using a combination of charm and promises of prompt returns. She often employed flattering remarks about the possessions to disarm resistance. It was a combination of charm, flattery, and persuasion to gain personal benefit.