What are rhetorical questions?

They are questions that don’t require an answer. For example: ‘Was he having a laugh?’

A question asked which requires no given answer

A rhetorical question is a question that is asked for effect without needing a response. This type of language can be used to make a point however not to receive an answer. Examples in which these may be used is during a speech to comply with the gravity of its situation, or in a book when reading a first perspective narrative. Therefore, a rhetorical question (simply) is a question without a need for an answer.

Rhetorical questions are questions where the main purpose isn’t to elicit an actual response in physical form. Instead, rhetorical questions are used to create emphasis of an already existing point (for example in persuasive writing, where we already know the opinion of the writer) or to invite or inspire speculation in the reader or the audience.

Some examples:

Spitting is a nasty habit. But I don’t really need to tell you that, do I?

Where would we be today if mobile phones didn’t exist?

Isn’t sunshine just so amazing!?

A rhetorical question is a question that requires no answer. They are often used as a persuasive technique, for example in advertising campaigns and political speeches.

Rhetorical questions do not require an answer. They are used to engage the audience and to make the audience think about the answer. It helps to connect the speaker/writer to their audience. For example in a persuasive speech about banning school uniform a speaker/writer might begin by saying, ‘Have you ever thought about all of the money your parents waste on buying you that hideous school uniform? ‘. This would make the audience consider their own view whilst it clearly shows that the speaker/writer disagrees with school uniform.

Rhetorical questions are questions that do not require an answer, for example; 'what time do you call this?'. The person speaking is not actually wanting a response of the time, the intention is to vocalise how they think the person they are talking to, is late. It requires the other person to infer this information and not take the question literally. They are usually used in writing for dramatic effect and provoke thought.

Hello there,

Rhetorical questions are questions that you mainly use in a persuasive text that you are writing. It usually is answers that cannot be answered but makes the reader think and usually persuades them to know what the text is about. It can also be used as part of emotive language.

a question used for dramatic effect that does not require an answer

A rhetorical question is conducted in a manor that creates dramatic effect without out any real substance, rather than going straight to the point!

Questions that do not require an answer. 

Example: What sort of person am I? How I will I escape? Where am I? 

Makes the reader question themselves or the character's judgement.

Questions that do not require an answer: i.e “Can you believe it?”

A question that is asked to make a point rather than to receive an answer.

Rhetorical questions are questions that do not require an answer because the purpose of it is to invoke a thought, rather than a response. They are used to make a point or create emphasis on a particular topic/ issue. Rhetorical questions are often used in persuasive writing or speeches in order to engage the audience and encourage them to consider an idea. Look at the two examples below:

1. "How can we expect to create a better future if we don’t take action today?"

This rhetorical question encourages the audience to think about the importance of taking responsibility and making changes now, rather than waiting for the future to improve on its own.

2."Isn’t it incredible how words have the power to change the world?"

This question highlights the power of language and communication, making the audience reflect on how words can influence people, inspire change, and shape history.

Rhetorical questions are questions which are not intended to be answered. They are often used for dramatic effect and not to gather information. The speaker or author may want to express an opinion on a topic, and this will be emphasised through the use of a rhetorical question.

For example, "What time do you call this?" is a rhetorical question. The speaker or author doesn't want to know what time it is, they are making a point that the person may have arrived late or at an unacceptable time.