A rhetorical question is asked without expecting an answer or when the answer is obvious. Rhetorical questions are generally either questions that don't have an answer, or they have very obvious and easy answers. Like most types of figurative language, a rhetorical question has multiple uses, but usually, it is a tool to help persuade an audience, to emphasize a point, or for humor.
Rhetorical questions are common in everyday conversation but are also used in more formal situations, particularly in speeches and persuasive essays. They are less common in formal academic writing, although you may sometimes encounter them there as well. In addition, you will see rhetorical questions in literature.
There are many different reasons you might use rhetorical questions in casual conversations.
Sometimes, rhetorical question examples have an obvious answer, and sometimes they don't need to be answered at all. Rhetorical questions to show your surprise could be to start a debate, stir up trouble, or start a conversation. These aren't questions with an answer, at least not a clear one.
Want to make a point? Or drive an important point home so the person you're speaking to gets it; try one of these.
Do pigs fly? Is water wet? These are all rhetorical question examples. They have obvious answers because, of course, water is wet, and nope, sorry, pigs don't fly. These rhetorical questions, also called rhetorical affirmations, can be used to talk about facts or to emphasize a point. The answers could also be suggested from context clues.
Here are a few more rhetorical question examples that are common in everyday usage:
Rhetorical questions can also be a way of introducing a subject. You might use this in casual conversation. It's also a format you may have heard comedians use to start a joke. These are usually cues for agreement, but the main purpose is setting up the topic you want to discuss. Usually, the person asking it goes straight into the story after asking the question, although there might be nods or other signs of agreement from the audience. Just remember that rhetorical questions provoke thought.
Politicians and important speakers use rhetorical questions all the time, that's because a rhetorical question asks the audience to think about something important, often to take action or vote in a certain way. Here are some examples.
Rhetorical Question Examples
Is this the kind of people we are? The rhetorical question here aims to turn the audience's attention upon themselves and make them search for their consciences.
Who do we want to be as a people and a nation?
This invites listeners to reflect on the question and the nature of how they see themselves and their country.
Can we allow this to continue?
The writer is trying to persuade readers that something currently happening is wrong.
Often a rhetorical question is used to persuade, influence, or change something. Look at these rhetorical question examples on flashcards; each has a specific purpose.
Rhetorical questions are not just for conversation, speeches and essays. You'll see them in poems and stories as well. Writers love to give their readers something to think about or reflect on, so what better way than using rhetorical question examples? Leaving a question unanswered allows the reader time to spend time thinking. Here are some examples:
Got a question about a rhetorical question? See if we've answered it here.
What is a rhetorical question?
Why use rhetorical questions in speech?
What is the purpose of rhetorical strategy?
Are rhetorical questions figurative language?
A rhetorical question can be a powerful literary device when you are trying to persuade your audience of something. It can be combined with other literary devices, such as hyperbole or irony, to drive your point home even more effectively. Recognizing and understanding its function can make your own writing stronger.