coax Definition
- 1persuade (someone) gradually or by flattery to do something
- 2manipulate (something) carefully into a particular shape or position
Using coax: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "coax" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She coaxed him into going for a walk.
Example
The sculptor coaxed the clay into the desired shape.
Example
He was coaxed out of retirement to help with the project.
coax Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using coax
Example
She had to coax and cajole her boss into giving her a raise.
Example
Despite her sadness, he managed to coax a smile out of her.
Example
It took all his skill and determination to coax the devil out of hell and finish the project on time.
Phrases with coax
Example
I finally managed to coax the truth out of him.
encourage someone to continue doing something, especially when they are finding it difficult
Example
I had to coax her along for the last few miles of the hike.
coax up
encourage a plant to grow by providing it with the right conditions
Example
I've been trying to coax some flowers up in this shady corner of the garden.
Origins of coax
from Old French 'caucier', meaning 'to entice'
Summary: coax in Brief
The verb 'coax' [koʊks] means to persuade someone gradually or by flattery to do something or manipulate something carefully into a particular shape or position. It can be used in various contexts, such as persuading someone to go for a walk or encouraging a plant to grow. The phrase 'coax and cajole' means to use flattery or gentle persuasion to get someone to do something, while 'coax the devil out of hell' means to achieve something that is very difficult or seemingly impossible.
