Translation guide
The art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, often with an implication of insincerity or exaggeration.
The skill of using language effectively to persuade or influence people.
The academic study of rhetoric as a discipline. Used in formal or educational contexts.
He is a professor of rhetoric.
Loanword from English. Often used in critical or analytical contexts, similar to 'rhetoric' in English.
His speech was full of clever rhetoric.
The art of speaking; conversational skill. More about eloquence in speech than formal rhetoric.
His rhetoric captivated the audience.
Language that sounds impressive but is actually meaningless or intended to deceive.
Flowery words; ornate rhetoric. Often implies insincerity or superficiality.
His promises were nothing but empty rhetoric.
Lip service; empty words. Casual expression for insincere talk.
Vapid; empty. Often used to describe hollow rhetoric. Somewhat literary.
A specific method or device used in persuasive language.
The English word 'rhetoric' covers both neutral and negative senses. In Japanese, the context determines which term to use. Using レトリック for empty talk may not carry the same negative weight as 美辞麗句.
修辞学 is strictly the academic discipline. レトリック is broader and can refer to practical persuasive techniques or, in some contexts, empty words. For 'empty rhetoric,' 美辞麗句 is more natural.
Don't be fooled by politicians' rhetoric.
The speech consisted entirely of empty rhetoric.
This advertisement uses clever rhetoric.