coax

[koʊks]

coax Definition

• 1. persuade (someone) gradually or by flattery to do something
• 2. manipulate (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

Synonyms for coax

• persuade
• wheedle
• cajole
• entice
• lure

Antonyms for coax

• dissuade
• discourage

Idioms Using coax

• coax and cajole

  use flattery or gentle persuasion to get someone to do something

  Example

  She had to coax and cajole her boss into giving her a raise.

• coax a smile out of someone

  make someone smile, especially when they are feeling sad or upset

  Example

  Despite her sadness, he managed to coax a smile out of her.

• coax the devil out of hell

  achieve something that is very difficult or seemingly impossible

  Example

  It took all his skill and determination to coax the devil out of hell and finish the project on time.

Phrases with coax

• coax out of

  persuade someone to tell you something

  Example

  I finally managed to coax the truth out of him.

• coax along

  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'

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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.