Words / C2

k-uh-JOHL/kəˈdʒəʊl/

To cajole is to persuade someone by pleasant talk or flattery: cajole him into staying, cajole a favour. Persuade is everyday and broader; coax is a close synonym, often gentler; sweet-talk is informal; wheedle can sound more manipulative. Cajolery is the rare noun. In speech, talk someone into it / sweet-talk is enough. Cajole uses charm, not force. It can be affectionate or sly depending on the motive. Do not call a clear order cajoling.

Meaning

To persuade someone by pleasant talk or flattery.

Examples

• “They cajoled him into staying an extra hour.”
• “They cajoled him into staying an extra hour with coffee and a fair share of the credit.”
• “You cannot cajole a deadline; you can only cajole the person who owns it.”

Good to know

cajole someone into + -ing. Persuade by charm/flattery. Everyday: talk into / sweet-talk. Close: coax. Contrast: order; threaten. Tone: warm or sly.

Near in meaning

coax

New