rhetorical
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rhetorical
Relating to rhetoric, that is, the art of speech and the ability to speak or write persuasively and effectively.
Der Politiker ist für sein großes rhetorisches Talent bekannt.
The politician is known for his great rhetorical talent.
rhetorical question
Describes a question that is not asked in order to get information, but to emphasize a statement or stimulate discussion. An answer is not expected.
Du fragst mich, ob ich müde bin? Nach 12 Stunden Arbeit – das ist doch eine rhetorische Frage!
You're asking me if I'm tired? After 12 hours of work—that's a rhetorical question!
'Rhetorisch' (rhetorical) is the adjective for the noun 'die Rhetorik' (rhetoric). Rhetoric is the art of speaking well and persuasively.
Ihre Rede war ein rhetorisches Meisterwerk.
Her speech was a rhetorical masterpiece.
By far the most common use for learners is the fixed expression 'eine rhetorische Frage' (a rhetorical question). This is a question to which the speaker does not expect a real answer because it is only used for emphasis.
Bin ich vielleicht dein Diener? Das war eine rhetorische Frage, du brauchst nicht zu antworten.
Am I your servant or something? That was a rhetorical question; you don't need to answer.
In its general meaning, 'rhetorisch' (rhetorical) describes skills or tools of the art of speaking. Typical combinations are 'rhetorische Fähigkeiten' (rhetorical skills), 'rhetorisches Geschick' (rhetorical skill), or 'rhetorische Mittel' (rhetorical devices).
Für eine Karriere in der Politik braucht man viel rhetorisches Geschick.
For a career in politics, you need a lot of rhetorical skill.
stylistic
Rhetorisch and stilistisch can both describe the same expressive device. Rhetorisch is appropriate when its persuasive or deliberate effect in a speech is important. Stilistisch refers more generally to linguistic design and manner of expression.
Die Wiederholung ist rhetorisch wirkungsvoll, weil sie die zentrale Forderung betont.
The repetition is rhetorically effective because it emphasizes the central demand.
Die Wiederholung ist stilistisch gelungen, weil sie dem Text einen klaren Rhythmus gibt.
The repetition is stylistically successful because it gives the text a clear rhythm.
