説得する

• Reading: せっとくする
• Romaji: settoku suru
• Kanji breakdown: 説 (setsu) — explain, theory; 得 (toku) — gain, obtain
• Pronunciation: /set.to.kɯ.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To persuade; to convince. Used when trying to change someone's mind or get them to agree through reasoning.

A する verb formed from the noun 説得 (persuasion). Implies using logic, reasoning, or emotional appeals to bring someone around to your viewpoint. Related word: 説得力 (settokuryoku, persuasiveness/convincing power).

Examples

1. 両親を説得して留学の許可をもらった。 I persuaded my parents and got permission to study abroad.
2. 彼を説得するのは簡単ではなかった。 Persuading him was no easy task.
3. 最終的に彼女を説得できた。 In the end, I was able to convince her.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, business, negotiation

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 説 (setsu, explain/theory) and 得 (toku, gain/obtain). Literally 'to gain through explanation' — winning agreement through words.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal