What is a rhetorical question

A rhetorical question is a question you ask someone, but you do not expect or need an answer. Often you know the answer to the question already. They are often used in emotive writing to emphasise particular points.For example, In a speech about climate change one might include the rhetorical question: Do you care about our planet?This rhetorical question directly appeals to the listeners and makes them think deeply about what you are saying to them.

MM
Answered by Maddie M. English tutor

6659 Views

See similar English GCSE tutors

Related English GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How do I think outside of the box and come up with unique answers?


GCSE To Kill A Mockingbird Question - Who are the mockingbird figures in the novel and what is their significance to the novel as a whole?


How do I use PQA?


How to quickly and effectively analyse a poem?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning