ACT (Enhanced)EnglishEasy
A student is writing a persuasive essay arguing for stricter regulations on plastic waste. They want to use a rhetorical appeal that evokes strong emotions of concern and responsibility in the audience. Which rhetorical appeal are they primarily attempting to employ?
- ALogos
- BPathos
- CEthos
- DKairos
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Pathos
Pathos is a rhetorical appeal that aims to evoke an emotional response in the audience. By appealing to 'strong emotions of concern and responsibility' regarding plastic waste, the student is directly employing pathos to persuade their readers.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Logos appeals to logic and reason, focusing on facts and arguments, not emotions.
- C. Ethos appeals to the speaker's credibility or character, not emotions.
- D. Kairos refers to the timeliness or appropriateness of an argument, not a direct emotional appeal.
Pathos
A rhetorical appeal that persuades an audience by evoking their emotions, such as pity, anger, fear, or compassion, to create a desired response.
- Aims to create an emotional connection.
- Often uses vivid language or personal stories.
- Can be used to inspire action or sympathy.
Memory trick: Rhetoric speaks to Ethos (ethics), Logos (logic), and Pathos (passion).