Language Symmetry: A Force Behind Persuasion

Authors

Joseph Yeager, Sommer Consulting, Inc.Follow
Linda Sommer, Sommer Consulting, Inc.Follow

Abstract

Language operates according to rules. Rules mean prediction. The application of these language rules to persuasive campaigns through linguistic technology can result in major gains in advertising, political and marketing outcomes. For qualitative researchers in communications, marketing and messaging, one area of persuasive language technology can be found in the linguistic feature of symmetry. Language has many forms of symmetry, and most persuaders are unaware that a great deal of persuasion depends upon symmetrical message structures. In persuasion, a mirror image or symmetrical reflection of an attitude or opinion is more persuasive than a random or non-symmetrical message or idea. Reading the subtle features of language to create symmetrical responses can create extraordinarily successful results for research and applied persuasive efforts ranging from single interviews to mass marketing campaigns.

Keywords

Linguistic Research, Linguistic Symmetry, Decision Prototyping, Motivation and Decision Grammar, Predictive Motivational Profiling, Persuasive Communications, Qualitative Research

Publication Date

4-2-2012

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 International License.

DOI

10.46743/2160-3715/2012.1787

Recommended APA Citation

Yeager, J., & Sommer, L. (2012). Language Symmetry: A Force Behind Persuasion. The Qualitative Report, 17(14), 1-10. https://doi.org/10.46743/2160-3715/2012.1787